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Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched a major attack on the USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea, firing 18 ballistic and cruise missiles, along with drones. The strike comes just one day after US President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas, including Sanaa and Saada. Both sides have issued stark warnings of further escalation as tensions rise over control of the vital Red Sea shipping corridor.

Houthi Retaliation for US Strikes

The missile attack on the US warship was described by Houthi military spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Saree as a direct response to the 47 US airstrikes on Houthi-controlled regions. Saree pledged that the Houthis would continue targeting American warships in both the Red Sea and Arabian Sea, escalating their efforts in retaliation for US military actions.

The Houthis have long claimed responsibility for attacks on international shipping, justifying their actions as solidarity with Palestinians during Israel’s conflict with Hamas. These attacks, which had paused following a ceasefire on January 19, resumed after Israel imposed a blockade on Gaza, reigniting tensions in the region.

US Commitment to Confront Houthi Threats

In response to the attack, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the United States’ commitment to ensuring that Houthi forces will not control maritime traffic in the Red Sea. Rubio stated, “These strikes will continue until they no longer have the capability to attack shipping.” His words reinforce the US position of maintaining pressure on the Houthis, despite the risks of escalating the conflict.

The US military airstrikes on Saturday reportedly resulted in at least 53 deaths, including women and children, according to the Houthi-run Health Ministry. In a statement, President Trump pledged to continue using “overwhelming lethal force” to target the Iran-backed Houthis until they cease their attacks on international shipping lanes and waters.

Iranian Involvement Denied

The Houthis have long been accused of receiving support from Iran, although Tehran denies direct involvement in the recent missile strike. Iranian General Hossein Salami reiterated that Tehran does not dictate operational decisions to its regional allies, including the Houthis. Despite these denials, many in the West remain skeptical of the Houthis’ connections to Iran, particularly in light of their consistent support for Iranian-backed militant groups across the region.

Growing Concerns Over Red Sea Stability

The ongoing conflict highlights the strategic importance of the Red Sea, a key maritime route for global trade and oil shipments. The region’s security remains fragile, with both Houthi forces and the US military warning that further actions are likely unless a diplomatic solution can be reached. As the standoff continues, the international community is closely monitoring the developments, fearing that the conflict could destabilize the entire region.