The United States has launched a series of powerful airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, citing their attacks on Red Sea shipping as justification, President Donald Trump announced. He accused the Iran-backed group of targeting U.S. aircraft, troops, and allies, warning that their “piracy, violence, and terrorism” had caused significant financial losses and endangered lives.
The Houthi-controlled health ministry reported at least nine deaths and nine injuries from the strikes.
Despite the attacks, the Houthis vowed to continue targeting vessels, which they initially linked to Israel’s actions in Gaza. However, many of the affected ships had no connection to Israel.
Trump emphasized that U.S. forces would employ “overwhelming lethal force” until their objectives were met. He warned the Houthis that if they persisted, they would face unprecedented retaliation, while also putting Iran “on notice” for its support of the group.
The conflict has significantly disrupted global trade, as major shipping companies have been forced to reroute vessels around Africa instead of using the Red Sea.
The U.S. Congress reported that the Houthis launched 190 attacks in the region between November 2023 and October 2024.
In response, the U.S. and the UK had previously carried out joint military strikes, and Israel has also targeted Houthi-linked sites.
Trump criticized the previous administration under Joe Biden for being “pathetically weak” in handling the Houthis, vowing that Washington would hold Iran fully accountable.
