The US military has conducted strikes on the Iranian-backed Houthi group in Yemen, targeting 15 locations to safeguard “freedom of navigation” in the region. The Pentagon reported that aircraft and warships were utilized in these operations, leading to multiple explosions in major Yemeni cities, including the capital, Sanaa.
The Houthis have been responsible for approximately 100 attacks on vessels in the Red Sea since November, sinking two ships. They claim these actions are retaliation against Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The Central Command, overseeing US military actions in the Middle East, stated the strikes aimed at Houthi weapons systems, bases, and equipment.
In addition, Houthi-aligned media confirmed that Sanaa was among the cities targeted. On Monday, the Houthis announced they had downed a US-made MQ-9 Reaper drone over Yemen, a claim the US military acknowledged, confirming the loss of the unmanned aircraft.
Last week, the Pentagon reported a “complex attack” by the Houthis on US Navy ships in the region, although all weapons launched were intercepted. Sanaa has experienced relative calm in recent years, following a decrease in hostilities between the warring factions in Yemen.
In addition to their actions against ships in the Red Sea, the Houthis have launched missiles and drones targeting Israel. A drone strike from Yemen hit Tel Aviv in July, resulting in one death and ten injuries, while several missiles were fired at Israel, including an attempt on the main airport.
In response, Israel has conducted attacks on Houthi sites in Yemen. Earlier this year, the US, UK, and twelve other nations initiated Operation Prosperity Guardian to ensure the safety of shipping lanes in the Red Sea, amidst rising threats from the Houthis, who are part of a broader network of Iran-backed armed groups in the Middle East, including Hezbollah and Hamas.
