US jets hit Houthi storage facilities in Yemen

Late Friday, U.S. fighter jets launched from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, stationed in the Red Sea, targeted and destroyed three underground facilities in Yemen under Houthi control, as confirmed by a U.S. official under the condition of anonymity. Witnesses and circulating social media videos documented the aftermath of the strikes in Sanaa, the Houthi-held capital, showcasing explosions and smoke. Although there was no immediate report on casualties or the specific origins of the blasts, Houthi-affiliated Al-Masirah TV broadcasted news of the city being hit.

Additionally, U.S. Central Command reported the elimination of four unmanned aerial vehicles in regions of Yemen governed by the Houthis. The statement also highlighted an incident where Houthis launched four anti-ship ballistic missiles into the Red Sea, fortunately resulting in no harm or damage to U.S., allied, or commercial vessels.

The Houthi rebels, who have connections with Iran and command substantial portions of Yemen, have persisted in their assaults on Red Sea maritime routes with drones and missiles. These actions are part of their broader strategy to compel Israel to cease its military operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Despite ongoing U.S.-led air raids for two months, the Houthis’ aggressive campaign continues unabated.