Trump warns Houthis and Iran the real pain is yet to come

U.S. President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his administration’s intention to continue airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, stating the attacks will persist until the group is no longer a danger to maritime security. Trump warned the Houthis and their allies in Iran of severe consequences if hostilities continue, promising further escalation if U.S. and allied ships remain under threat.

Speaking through his Truth Social platform, Trump declared that the choice was simple for the Houthis: cease attacks on American vessels, or brace for intensified military action. He emphasized that the offensive is just beginning and warned of increased suffering for both the Houthis and their Iranian supporters if their aggression persists.

Continued Airstrikes and Strategic Pressure

Shortly after Trump issued his latest warning, reports from Houthi-linked media claimed that U.S. strikes had hit Kamaran Island near the Hodeida coast. This marks another wave in what has become a near-daily bombardment of Houthi-held territory since the launch of U.S. air operations on March 15.

On the opening day of the offensive, American officials reported eliminating key Houthi leaders, while the rebels’ health ministry said over 50 people had died. Despite the heavy losses, the Houthis have continued launching attacks on U.S. warships and Israeli interests, vowing that their campaign will persist in solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Trump stated that U.S. forces have intensified their operations, striking targets day and night with increasing force. He declared that the Houthis have already been severely weakened and would face even greater pressure if they continue to disrupt global shipping lanes.

Shipping Routes Disrupted, Diplomatic Fallout Grows

The Houthi campaign has severely impacted Red Sea shipping, with many vessels forced to avoid the Suez Canal altogether — a passage responsible for around 12% of the world’s maritime traffic. As a result, several companies have rerouted their ships around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope, significantly increasing transit time and costs.

While Trump continues to project strength in dealing with the Houthi crisis, his administration is also grappling with a controversy surrounding the unauthorized disclosure of classified military discussions. The Atlantic magazine recently revealed that one of its editors was mistakenly added to a Signal chat containing confidential information about strike plans in Yemen. The chat included senior officials like National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who allegedly shared operational details without realizing the breach.

Despite growing scrutiny, Trump has dismissed calls to dismiss the officials involved, labeling the backlash as politically motivated. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration considers the matter closed, signaling no further action will be taken internally.