In a decisive move, U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated a series of airstrikes against Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. This action comes as a response to ongoing Houthi attacks on shipping routes critical to global trade.
Trump emphasized his administration’s readiness to employ “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis halt their assaults on vessels traversing these vital maritime corridors. The Houthis have reported that nine civilians lost their lives during the strikes, which sparked significant concern among local communities.
“Our brave Warfighters are right now carrying out aerial attacks on the terrorists’ bases, leaders, and missile defenses to protect American shipping, air, and naval assets, and to restore Navigational Freedom,”
Trump stated in a social media post. He further remarked, “No terrorist force will stop American commercial and naval vessels from freely sailing the Waterways of the World.” This declaration highlights the United States’ commitment to maintaining navigational rights amid escalating regional tensions.
Warnings to Iran and Regional Implications
Alongside the airstrikes, Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, holding it “fully accountable” for supporting the Houthi rebels. This caution follows a recent letter sent to Iranian leaders, which proposed a framework for resuming negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear weapons program—a situation the U.S. aims to prevent from advancing.
The airstrikes were executed in the wake of a Houthi announcement indicating plans to recommence attacks on Israeli vessels, citing retaliation for Israel’s blockade of Gaza. However, no such assaults have been reported since that declaration.
Local Reactions and Future Outlook
Reports from the region detail a series of explosions in Houthi-controlled areas, particularly in the Eastern Geraf neighborhood, where residents described being caught off guard by the strikes. Nasruddin Amer, the deputy head of the Houthi media office, asserted that the U.S. airstrikes would not deter their resolve, vowing that “Sanaa will remain Gaza’s shield and support and will not abandon it no matter the challenges.”
While prior military actions by the U.S., Israel, and Britain have targeted Houthi positions, the Israeli military chose not to comment on this latest operation. A U.S. official confirmed that the airstrikes were exclusively conducted by American forces, marking the first military action of Trump’s second term and a notable escalation following a period of relative tranquility in the region.