The U.S. and Britain Launch Airstrikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen
In response to recent attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the United States and Britain conducted airstrikes on 18 Houthi targets in Yemen. American and British fighter jets targeted missiles, launchers, rockets, drones, and air defense systems in eight locations. This marks the fourth combined operation against the Houthis since January 12, with almost daily strikes by the U.S. targeting incoming missiles and drones.
The United Kingdom also joined in the strikes, targeting Houthi drones and launchers with precision strikes. A wider coalition, including Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand, supported the strikes. President Joe Biden has made it clear that the U.S. will not tolerate Houthi attacks against commercial shipping.
Despite the airstrikes, the Houthis have vowed to continue their military operations and denounced the strikes. Their attacks on ships have caused damage to several vessels in the region, prompting concerns about environmental disasters, such as a recent oil slick from a targeted vessel.
In the past month alone, the U.S. has conducted over 32 strikes in Yemen, with allied involvement in some operations. Over 120 launchers, surface-to-air missiles, storage and support buildings, and drone storage buildings have been targeted by the U.S. and its allies.
The recent increase in Houthi attacks, with missiles launched toward commercial ships in the region causing damage and fires, has led to the rerouting of vessels and the formation of a joint mission for protection. The situation in Yemen remains tense as the conflict between the Houthis and the coalition shows no signs of slowing down.
