Rudolph Angler The United States has launched airstrikes on Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, with President Donald Trump promising to use “overwhelming lethal force” until Houthi rebels halt their attacks. The strikes are part of a broader effort to secure vital maritime corridors threatened by Houthi forces.
Rising Tensions Spark Military Action
The airstrikes came in response to Houthi attacks on ships passing through a key maritime corridor. President Trump confirmed the operation in a social media post, stating that U.S. forces were targeting terrorist bases, leaders, and missile defenses.
“No terrorist group will be allowed to block American ships or threaten our interests,” Trump stated. “Iran should take note—we will hold them fully accountable if they continue supporting these groups.”
According to Houthi sources, the airstrikes killed nine civilians, adding to the already high tension in the region. Residents in Sanaa reported hearing multiple explosions, with at least four airstrikes hitting the Eastern Geraf neighborhood, forcing families to flee in terror.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict between the U.S. and the Iran-backed Houthi rebels has been escalating, particularly as the Houthis have increasingly targeted ships in the region. The group has also announced renewed strikes on Israeli vessels as retaliation for Israel’s Gaza blockade, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.
The Trump administration’s decision to launch airstrikes marks the first such operation under Trump’s second administration. Although the U.S., Britain, and Israel have previously targeted Houthi-controlled areas, Saturday’s strikes were conducted solely by American forces, according to U.S. officials.
Houthi Response and Continued Hostilities
In response to the airstrikes, Houthi official Nasruddin Amer stated that the attacks would not weaken the group’s resolve. “Our support for Gaza will continue, despite the U.S. offensive,” Amer said, signaling that the Houthis would persist with their operations.
The Houthis’ determination to continue their attacks poses a significant challenge for the U.S. and its allies, especially as the conflict intersects with broader regional tensions involving Iran and Israel.
Global Reactions and Future Implications
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with fears that the conflict could escalate further. Analysts warn that continued U.S. airstrikes could provoke a stronger retaliation from the Houthis and potentially draw Iran more directly into the conflict.
The United Nations has previously called for peaceful resolutions to the Yemen conflict, but efforts to broker a lasting ceasefire have repeatedly failed. As the fighting continues, civilians remain at the greatest risk, particularly in areas like Sanaa where the airstrikes have caused mass displacement.
The Trump administration has made it clear that its current strategy involves direct and forceful military action against the Houthi rebels. Whether this approach will successfully curb the group’s attacks or further inflame the conflict remains uncertain.