U.S. airstrikes in Yemen have eliminated senior Houthi leaders in a decisive military action to protect shipping lanes and hold Iran accountable. Defense Secretary Hegseth announced the strikes will continue until Houthis cease attacks, emphasizing the operation’s aim is not to intervene in Yemen’s civil war. President Trump warned both the Houthis and Iran of severe consequences should threats to the U.S. continue, while the Houthis threaten retaliation against American actions.
In a significant military action, U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz announced the elimination of several senior Houthi leaders in recent airstrikes in Yemen. The nature and extent of these strikes were noted to be the most extensive carried out to date, with prior reports suggesting the death of six Houthi officials. However, exact figures and identities remain unverified.
Waltz articulated a critical shift in strategy from previous administrations, aiming to hold Iran accountable for its support of the Houthis, which has impeded maritime trade routes in the region. He asserted that Iran must cease its backing of the Houthi group, emphasizing a decisive response from the United States to safeguard international shipping lanes and combat threats posed by the Houthis.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced that the airstrikes will persist until the Houthis stop their assaults on shipping assets. This military operation explicitly seeks to protect vital maritime routes rather than intervene in Yemen’s ongoing civil conflict. Leaders including Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that ground operations are not being considered.
The air strikes began with expansive attacks on Houthi-controlled areas, leading to claims by the Houthis of numerous casualties among civilians. The campaign reportedly aims to neutralize threats to global trade and targeted Houthi missile launchers and leadership homes. Following the strikes, the Houthis have indicated plans to relocate their missile stockpiles.
Despite the U.S. offensive, the Houthis announced their intent to continue supporting Palestine and warned of retaliation against the strikes. They expressed their determination to maintain a naval blockade against Israel, highlighting ongoing tensions and potential threats to international shipping. Accordingly, the group has advised its leaders to evade targets potentially impacted by American military actions.
President Donald Trump justified the operations as necessary, condemning past responses as weak and insisting that attacks on American vessels would face overwhelming force. He warned both the Houthis and Iran of serious repercussions should they continue to threaten U.S. interests or worldwide shipping.
The recent U.S. military strikes against the Houthis mark a significant escalation in efforts to counter terrorist threats and ensure the security of maritime trade. With a focus on holding Iran accountable for its support of the Houthis, U.S. officials have made clear that operations will not cease until the threat is neutralized. As the Houthis retaliate and maintain their stance on supporting Palestine, international tensions are likely to continue rising.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
