U.S. airstrikes in Yemen have killed several Houthi leaders, with officials emphasizing a decisive response to Houthi threats against maritime routes. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stressed the strikes are aimed at halting Houthi aggression without intervening in Yemen’s civil war. Trump stated that Iran must cease backing the Houthis, warning of potential consequences. The air campaign may continue as Houthi threats remain significant.
On Sunday afternoon, U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz announced that multiple leaders of the Houthi terror group were killed in recent airstrikes in Yemen. Although he did not disclose the precise number of casualties, Arab media reported the deaths of six senior Houthi officials. Waltz emphasized that these airstrikes are the most extensive under President Trump’s administration, contrasting them with the previously limited measures taken under President Biden.
Waltz characterized the recent strikes as a decisive response aimed at eliminating Houthi leaders while holding Iran accountable for its backing of the group. He asserted that Iran’s support has enabled the Houthis to disrupt significant maritime trade routes within the Red Sea and Suez Canal. Waltz advised Iran to cease its support for the Houthis and underscored that all options, including potential strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, remain available as discussions for a new nuclear agreement stalled.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the strikes would persist until the Houthis ceased attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea. Hegseth clarified that the operations aim solely to enhance maritime security and are not intended to alter Yemen’s internal conflict. Senator Marco Rubio also reaffirmed that ground operations in Yemen are currently out of consideration, agreeing with the continued air campaign until the Houthis are no longer capable of maritime threats.
The extensive military operation began late Saturday, targeting various locations in Houthi-controlled territories, particularly in Sanaa. Reports indicated significant civilian casualties, with the Houthis claiming the strikes led to at least 31 fatalities. As the U.S. air campaign progresses, extra measures to continuously assess and address Houthi actions are being implemented to safeguard international trade routes.
Analysts noted that the strikes have compelled the Houthis to relocate their missile assets and leadership out of fear of further U.S. attacks. Despite this, the group has vowed to maintain its operations in support of Palestine, emphasizing a commitment to retaliate against perceived aggressions, including U.S. military actions.
In announcing the strikes, President Trump condemned the Houthi attacks on American vessels and labeled prior responses from the Biden administration as insufficient. He issued strong warnings to the Houthis and Iran, demanding an immediate cessation of support for Houthi actions. Trump’s firm stance indicates an approach directed at enforcing U.S. interests in protecting maritime routes and deterring Iranian influence in the region.
In summary, the U.S. has embarked on extensive airstrikes against the Houthi group in Yemen, resulting in significant leadership casualties and sustained military objectives focused on preserving maritime security. Officials have highlighted the need for Iran to withdraw support for the Houthis, with further military options remaining open. The firm stance taken by U.S. leadership aims to deter any threats to international shipping and uphold U.S. interests in the region.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
