Yemen’s Houthi rebels have declared a strong response to recent American and British airstrikes against them, escalating the potential for a broader conflict in a region already grappling with Israel’s actions in Gaza. The airstrikes, a reaction to a series of drone and missile attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, resulted in at least five deaths and six injuries, according to the Houthis. The U.S. targeted more than 60 locations in Houthi-controlled areas across Yemen.
The bombing illuminated the morning sky over regions held by the Iranian-backed rebels, global attention once again turned to Yemen’s long-standing war, which commenced when the Houthis seized the country’s capital.
The rebels have been targeting ships in the Red Sea since November, citing retaliation for Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas. However, their attacks have often targeted vessels with no link to Israel, posing a threat to shipping in a critical global trade and energy route.
Despite efforts by the Biden administration and its allies to ease tensions in the Middle East and prevent a broader conflict, the recent strikes have heightened the risk of one.
Saudi Arabia, a supporter of the government-in-exile that the Houthis oppose, swiftly distanced itself from the attacks as it seeks to maintain a delicate balance with Iran and a ceasefire in Yemen.
The Houthi military spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, vowed that the strikes “will not go unanswered or unpunished,” claiming casualties among their forces. While the extent of the damage remains unclear, the Houthis mentioned attacks on at least five sites, including airfields.
The U.S. Air Forces Central Command stated that the strikes targeted Houthi command and control nodes, munition depots, launching systems, production facilities, and air defense radar systems, using over 100 precision-guided munitions.
The United Kingdom reported strikes on a site in Bani allegedly used by the Houthis for launching drones and an airfield in Abbs used for cruise missiles and drones.
Hussein al-Ezzi, a Houthi official, warned of dire consequences for the U.S. and Britain, terming the airstrikes a “blatant aggression.”
The Red Sea route is vital for global trade, and disruptions due to attacks have caused significant economic impacts. Benchmark Brent crude oil traded up around 4% at over $80 a barrel following the events.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy acknowledged an attack on a ship in the Indian Ocean, signaling Iran’s potential willingness to target vessels in a broader maritime campaign related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
In Saada, the Houthi stronghold, and in Sanaa, the capital, rallies denounced the U.S. and Israel, reflecting the heightened tensions.
Yemen has faced U.S. military action across multiple presidencies, with drone strikes initiated under President George W. Bush targeting the local affiliate of al-Qaida. The conflict escalated as a Saudi-led coalition, including the United Arab Emirates, intervened to support Yemen’s exiled government in 2015, evolving into a regional confrontation with Iran backing the Houthis.
While the war has slowed, a comprehensive deal to end the conflict has yet to be reached, leading to Saudi Arabia expressing “great concern” over the recent airstrikes. Iran condemned the attacks, and international responses ranged from calls for de-escalation to condemnation as illegitimate.
The situation remains fluid, and the international community watches closely as tensions in the region escalate.
Danielle Dolin is a prolific writer and serves as the Managing Editor at the Christian News Journal. A dedicated mother of four daughters, she calls Southern Arizona home. Danielle’s passion for journalism extends beyond her professional role; she imparts her knowledge to homeschool students as a dedicated teacher. In her cherished moments of respite, you can find her engrossed in the pages of books or engaged in the world of video games. Her multifaceted life is a testament to her commitment to family, education, and her unwavering love for storytelling.