US and UK Bombings Target Yemeni Rebels, Raising Concerns of an Escalating Conflict

In a significant military response, the U.S. and British forces launched extensive air strikes on multiple sites in Yemen, targeting the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels early Friday. Utilizing warships, submarines, and fighter jets, they deployed Tomahawk missiles in this large-scale operation, according to U.S. officials.

The strikes targeted over 60 locations, including command centers, munitions storage, launch systems, production facilities, and radar systems, aiming to disrupt Houthi operations. President Joe Biden stated that these strikes were a direct response to the Houthi’s continuous assaults on Red Sea shipping and were carefully considered after diplomatic efforts. He emphasized that these strikes were necessary to protect U.S. personnel, civilian mariners, and the flow of international trade.

In Yemen’s capital Sanaa, residents reported hearing explosions early Friday. Further impacts were felt in the western port area of Hodeida, as well as in the cities of Taiz and Dhamar.

These strikes were the first direct U.S. military response to the ongoing drone and missile attacks on commercial ships linked to the Israel-Hamas war. Just a week prior, the White House, along with partner nations, had warned the Houthis against continuing their attacks. Congressional members were briefed on these strike plans.

The U.S. and U.K. acted after the Houthis intensified their attacks, including a significant barrage of drones and missiles aimed at shipping in the Red Sea. Despite these strikes, the Houthis have continued to target Israel and disrupt crucial trade routes.

The U.N. Security Council, led by France, has scheduled an emergency meeting to discuss these developments. The Houthis have threatened a strong military response to any American intervention.

Senior U.S. administration officials anticipate that the strikes will diminish Houthi capabilities but are prepared for potential retaliation. The U.K.’s involvement, as stated by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, was to degrade Houthi military capabilities and safeguard global shipping.

This action reflects the Biden administration’s strategy of forming a broad international coalition to confront the Houthis. The Red Sea, a vital global trade route, has become increasingly threatened by these conflicts, prompting the creation of Operation Prosperity Guardian to enhance maritime security in the region.