Houthis Attack US Aircraft Carrier Following Airstrikes Amid Rising Tensions
The Houthis in Yemen launched an attack on the USS Harry Truman following U.S. airstrikes targeting their leaders. The airstrikes, the first since President Trump took office, resulted in significant casualties. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz stated that the U.S. would hold the Houthis and their Iranian backers accountable. President Trump issued strong warnings to both the Houthis and Iran regarding their actions.
On March 16, Yemen’s Houthi rebels declared an assault on a United States aircraft carrier, specifically the USS Harry Truman, in the Red Sea. This offensive followed U.S. airstrikes on the group, which had resulted in substantial casualties. The Houthis stated, “In response to this (US) aggression, the armed forces conducted a military operation… targeting the USS Harry Truman and its accompanying warships,” claiming they launched 18 missiles and a drone during the attack.
The U.S. airstrikes, launched on March 15, marked the first direct military engagement against the Houthis since President Donald Trump assumed office in January. The operation led to the death of several Houthi leaders, as confirmed by the White House. The Yemeni rebels’ health ministry reported that at least 31 individuals were killed and 101 were injured due to the strikes.
National Security Advisor Michael Waltz remarked that the U.S. strikes strategically targeted Houthi leaders, emphasizing that both the Houthis and their Iranian sponsors would be held accountable. He asserted, “If that means their targeting ships that they have put in to help… those targets will be on the table too,” commenting on the broader implications for targeting Iranian support.
In a subsequent statement following the attacks, President Trump issued a stern message via Truth Social, insisting, “YOUR ATTACKS MUST STOP, STARTING TODAY. IF THEY DON’T, HELL WILL RAIN DOWN UPON YOU LIKE NOTHING YOU HAVE EVER SEEN BEFORE!” He also admonished Iran, stating, “To Iran: Support for the Houthi terrorists must end IMMEDIATELY!” warning that any threat towards the U.S. would result in severe consequences.
The recent escalation in Yemen reflects heightened tensions following U.S. airstrikes targeting Houthi leaders, signaling a significant shift in American military engagement in the region. The Houthis’ counterattack illustrates their commitment to retaliate against what they describe as U.S. aggression. Both U.S. officials and President Trump have issued strong warnings to the Houthis and Iran, emphasizing a readiness to act decisively if threats persist.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
