The United States military launched airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, amid growing regional tensions. The strikes reportedly hit a missile storage facility and a command-and-control site, aiming to disrupt the group’s operations. The escalating conflict underscores the increasing strain between the Houthis, the US, and their regional allies.
US Justifies Strikes
US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the strikes were carried out to “disrupt and degrade Houthi operations.” The Houthis, formally known as Ansar Allah, have previously attacked US naval vessels and merchant ships in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb, and the Gulf of Aden. CENTCOM emphasized that these strikes were a response to the group’s hostile actions in strategic maritime areas.
However, the Houthis labeled the airstrikes as “terrorist attacks.” Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, a senior member of the group, accused the US of fostering chaos and criminality in the region. He reiterated the group’s continued support for Gaza, linking the escalation to the broader regional conflict.
Friendly Fire Incident Raises Concerns
On Sunday, two US Navy pilots were shot down over the Red Sea in what CENTCOM described as a “friendly fire” incident. Both pilots survived, but one sustained minor injuries. The incident highlights the complexities and risks of military operations in the region, which is witnessing heightened tensions.
Israeli-Houthi Hostilities Intensify
The strikes follow a series of attacks between the Houthis and the Israeli military. On Thursday, Israel launched airstrikes in Yemen, targeting power stations near Sanaa and killing at least nine people. This came after the Houthis fired a ballistic missile at Tel Aviv, which landed in the Tel Aviv-Jaffa area, causing minor injuries to 16 people.
The Houthis have increased their attacks on Israel, using drones and missiles as part of their campaign to pressure the US ally to end its military operations in Gaza. The group has also targeted shipping lanes in the Red Sea, further intensifying the conflict.
Broader Implications
The Houthis’ actions are closely tied to their support for Palestinians amidst the ongoing war in Gaza. The US, along with the UK, has been responding with airstrikes and sanctions. Recently, the Biden administration imposed sanctions on several Houthi officials and associated companies, accusing them of acquiring weapons components.
The conflict highlights the interconnectedness of regional tensions, with Yemen becoming a flashpoint in the broader geopolitical struggle. As the Houthis continue their operations, the US and its allies face challenges in curbing the group’s influence while addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Read: Houthis Target Israel with Drone Strike in Support of Gaza
Escalating Humanitarian Crisis
The situation in Yemen remains dire, with ongoing hostilities further exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis. International observers warn of the devastating impact of prolonged conflict on civilians, infrastructure, and regional stability.
The recent airstrikes reflect the deepening complexities of the conflict, drawing international attention to Yemen’s role in the larger geopolitical landscape.
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