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US Strikes Kill 20 in Yemen; Trump Vows to End Houthi Attacks
The first U.S. airstrikes against Yemen's Houthi rebels since President Donald Trump took office killed at least 20 people, according to the rebels, as Washington escalated its warnings to Iran to stop supporting the group.
The strikes, which hit the capital Sanaa and the northern Saada region, resulted in civilian casualties, including children. The Houthi-run health ministry reported that nine civilians were killed in Sanaa, with several others seriously injured. A separate strike in Saada killed at least 10 people, with additional injuries reported.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the use of "precision strikes" aimed at protecting American interests and restoring freedom of navigation in key maritime routes. The Pentagon also posted images showing fighter jets taking off from an aircraft carrier and a bomb hitting a building compound.
In response, President Trump vowed to continue using "overwhelming lethal force" until the Houthis cease their attacks, particularly targeting Red Sea shipping lanes vital to global trade. He also warned Iran to cut support for the rebels or face consequences.
The Houthi rebels, who have controlled large parts of Yemen since 2014, threatened retaliation. In a statement broadcast on their Al-Masirah TV, the group declared, "Our Yemeni armed forces are fully prepared to confront escalation with escalation."
The Houthis have been attacking international shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, affecting crucial maritime routes. Their actions have forced many ships to take costly detours, disrupting global trade.
Despite the ongoing conflict, the U.S. response is largely focused on the Houthis’ threat to shipping, with no direct mention of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Trump’s remarks. Earlier this month, the U.S. re-designated the Houthis as a “foreign terrorist organization,” citing repeated attacks on U.S. warships and commercial vessels.
The U.S. and Saudi-led coalition have been engaged in a protracted military conflict with the Houthis since 2015. Despite a ceasefire in 2022, peace talks have stalled due to ongoing tensions and attacks by the Houthis, including their support for Palestinian groups like Hamas.