United States and United Kingdom Strike 18 Houthi Targets in Yemen
In response to increased attacks by the Houthi rebels in Yemen against ships in the Red Sea, the United States and the United Kingdom launched airstrikes on 18 Houthi sites, including underground weapons and missile storage facilities.
In a joint announcement, officials stated that the military operation targeted 18 sites across eight locations in Yemen, focusing on destroying underground weapons, missile storage facilities, air defense systems, radars, and a helicopter.
This recent operation marks the fourth instance of joint attacks by the US and UK against the Houthis since January 12. In addition to these joint efforts, the US has been conducting daily raids to eliminate incoming missiles, rockets, and drones launched by the Houthi rebels targeting commercial and Navy vessels.
Despite these efforts, the Houthi attacks have continued to disrupt global trade and increase shipping rates, impacting economies and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Yemen and other countries.
Escalation of Military Actions
US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin justified the recent strikes as necessary to further disrupt and weaken the capabilities of the Iranian-backed Houthi militia. He warned the rebels of consequences if they did not cease their illegal attacks, emphasizing the harm caused to Middle Eastern economies and the disruption of humanitarian aid delivery.
A coalition of countries including Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand supported these military actions against the Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Houthi Response
In response to the airstrikes, Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree declared that the rebels would retaliate with more sophisticated military operations targeting hostile entities in the Red and Arab Seas. The Houthis vowed to continue their military efforts in support of the Palestinian people and demanded an end to aggression and the lifting of the siege on Gaza.
The Associated Press reported that the Houthis have conducted 57 attacks on commercial and military ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden since November 19. The frequency of these attacks has intensified in recent days, with the rebels claiming responsibility for targeting a US-flagged oil tanker, MV Torm Thor.
While the missile launched by the Houthis was successfully intercepted by US forces, no damage or injuries were reported on the targeted vessel, highlighting the ongoing conflicts and maritime security threats in the region.
Credit: Source article from Al Jazeera