U.S. Intensifies Airstrikes Against Houthis Amid Regional Tensions
The US is conducting airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthis to halt their attacks on shipping. The strikes have caused significant casualties, including civilians. Houthi leadership has vowed retaliation against US naval forces, while Iran warns of potential escalation. Calls for restraint have been made by international leaders amid the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen.
The United States has initiated airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthi forces in response to their threats on shipping security. The US Defense Secretary declared that attacks will continue until the Houthis cease their operations against maritime targets. This action has reportedly resulted in the deaths of 53 individuals, including civilians, according to the Houthi-run health ministry, marking a significant military operation since the Trump administration began in January.
In a televised statement, Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi warned that his fighters would actively target US naval vessels in the Red Sea as a reprisal for US military actions. He asserted, “If they continue their aggression, we will continue the escalation.” The Houthi political bureau condemned the strikes, labeling them a war crime. In return, US officials monitored alleged hostile actions including missile launches aimed at an aircraft carrier but confirmed that none posed a direct threat.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized a definitive stance against Houthi aggressions, stating, “The minute the Houthis say we’ll stop shooting at your ships, we’ll stop shooting at your drones.” He reaffirmed this military campaign is focused on safeguarding navigational freedoms deemed crucial to US interests. The Houthis previously claimed they would resume attacks on Israeli vessels unless the blockade on Gaza was lifted, aligning their justifications with ongoing regional tensions.
In light of the escalating situation, Iranian leaders warned against further military actions by the US. Hossein Salami, a senior Revolutionary Guards commander, indicated Iran’s readiness to respond decisively to any threats made against them. Additionally, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to exercise restraint, warning about the grave implications of continued violence for the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the Houthi capabilities to execute such attacks were sustained by Iranian support. Concurrently, Russian officials have called for immediate cessation of military hostilities and emphasized the need for diplomatic discussions to resolve the unrest. Reports also emerged of significant civilian casualties in the US strikes, with children and women among the deceased, raising concerns regarding adherence to international humanitarian standards. Witness narratives illustrate the devastation in Sanaa, where communities are grappling with the aftermath of airstrikes. Houthi attacks on shipping have increasingly threatened global trade, compelling the US military into a costly deterrent campaign as regional skirmishes continue to disrupt commerce.
In summary, the ongoing military actions by the United States against Yemen’s Houthis stem from the group’s increasing assaults on shipping lanes, emphasizing the strategic importance of maritime security. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have signaled intentions of escalation in response to US strikes, igniting fears of wider regional conflict. As international leaders call for restraint and dialogue, the humanitarian consequences remain dire, highlighting the need for urgent intervention to address both military and civilian casualties.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
