Yemen’s Houthi rebels have intensified attacks in the Red Sea, targeting a U.S. aircraft carrier group twice within 24 hours. This latest assault comes in retaliation for American airstrikes, which have killed at least 53 people, including five children. The escalating conflict threatens regional stability and global trade, with Washington vowing to continue its military campaign until the Houthis cease attacks on commercial vessels.
Houthi Attacks on U.S. Warships
On Monday, the Houthis claimed to have launched 18 missiles and a drone at the USS Harry Truman and its accompanying warships in the Red Sea. Hours later, they announced a second strike. The U.S. has not yet responded to these claims, but the attacks mark a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
In a statement, a Houthi spokesperson said the strikes on the American carrier group were in direct response to “continued U.S. aggression against Yemen.” The Iran-backed rebels have vowed to expand their military operations if U.S. attacks persist.
Rising Death Toll from U.S. Strikes
The number of casualties from the first U.S. airstrikes under President Donald Trump has climbed to 53, according to Yemen’s Houthi-controlled health ministry. Ministry spokesperson Anis Al-Asbahi confirmed that five children and two women were among the dead, with nearly 100 others wounded.
Trump, who ordered the strikes on Saturday, warned that the U.S. would unleash “overwhelming lethal force” if the Houthis continued their attacks. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz confirmed that American strikes specifically targeted senior Houthi leaders.
Read: Israel-Gaza Conflict Deepens: Hostages Standoff, Political Rift Unfold
More U.S. Strikes in Yemen
Houthi media reported further explosions on Sunday night, accusing the U.S. of bombing a cotton factory in Hodeida and attacking the Galaxy Leader, an Israeli-owned vessel captured by the Houthis over a year ago. Washington has not confirmed these reports.
Meanwhile, Houthi leader Abdulmalik Al-Houthi has called on Yemenis to mobilize and march in protest against the U.S. military operations. The rebels insist they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians, accusing Israel of blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Global Reactions and Calls for De-escalation
The escalating violence has drawn international concern. The United Nations has urged both sides to halt military actions immediately, warning that the situation threatens Red Sea security and global trade. China has also called for diplomatic solutions. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated that China “opposes any action that escalates tensions in the Red Sea” and urged all parties to engage in dialogue.
Houthis Resume Red Sea Attacks
Before this latest wave of violence, the Houthis had not claimed attacks on Red Sea shipping since January 19, when a temporary ceasefire in Gaza took effect. However, the rebels say they have resumed strikes because Israel has restricted humanitarian aid to Gaza. They have warned that unless the U.S. stops its military operations, they will escalate further.
Conflict at a Crossroads
The ongoing battle between the U.S. and the Houthis signals a dangerous new phase in the Red Sea conflict. While Washington seeks to restore stability to vital trade routes, Houthi forces remain defiant. As global powers watch closely, the situation remains volatile, with the risk of a broader regional war growing by the day.
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