U.S. and British forces conducted strikes against over a dozen Houthi targets in Yemen on Saturday, aiming to counter the Iran-linked group’s ongoing attacks on shipping in the region.
Despite frequent strikes by the United States, the Houthi attacks persist, impacting global trade and increasing shipping rates.
The joint statement highlighted military action against 18 Houthi targets across eight locations, including underground weapon storage, missile facilities, air defense systems, radars, and a helicopter.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized disrupting and degrading the capabilities of the Iranian-backed militia.
The strikes, supported by several countries, aim to deter illegal attacks causing economic harm and environmental damage.
The Houthi response characterizes the raids as attempts to hinder support for Palestinians in Gaza.
Recent Houthi attacks, including on a UK-owned cargo ship and a U.S. destroyer, have raised concerns about disruptions to the Suez Canal, crucial for global maritime traffic.
The EU and the U.S. have launched naval missions to safeguard navigation in the Red Sea.
