In a joint effort, the United States and Great Britain have conducted strikes on Houthi rebel sites in Yemen with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands. The strikes specifically targeted the capabilities that the Houthis have been using to launch attacks against international shipping and mariners in the Red Sea. While the initial assessments indicate that the strikes had positive effects, further evaluations will be conducted to assess the full extent of the damage inflicted upon the rebel group.
These strikes are part of an ongoing campaign to disrupt and degrade the Houthi rebels' ability to carry out attacks in the future. It has been revealed that since January 11th, more than 25 missile facilities have been destroyed or degraded by the United States, in addition to several missile launch and deployment facilities. Other targeted capabilities included coastal radars, unmanned aerial vehicles, aerial surveillance, and weapon storage areas. These targeted strikes aim to diminish the Houthi rebels' capacity to launch attacks on international shipping interests in the Red Sea.
However, despite these efforts, it is acknowledged that the Houthi rebels may still possess additional capabilities that could potentially be utilized for future attacks. The ultimate goal of the multinational coalition is to impose a cost on any future attacks, making it clear that there will be consequences. Collaborating with the international community, the coalition aims to ensure the safety and security of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden for international shipping.
Addressing concerns about the health status of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, it has been stated that he is recovering well and currently working from home. He continues to perform his duties remotely, participating in matters such as the 18th Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which involved representatives from over 50 nations. Despite his absence from the Pentagon, Secretary Austin remains actively engaged in overseeing departmental operations and implementing national security policies.
Reassurances have been given regarding the Secretary's capacity to command these joint strikes and his ability to lead the Department of Defense effectively. The President has expressed confidence in Secretary Austin, as demonstrated by his continued support. The Secretary's commitment to protecting the nation remains steadfast, and he is anticipated to return to the Pentagon as soon as he is able.
Although the recent attacks have inflicted significant damage on the Houthi rebels, some shipping lines and oil tanker companies remain apprehensive about returning to the area due to the persisting threat. Despite the presence of task forces accompanying these vessels, concerns about safety persist. However, it is emphasized that the multinational coalition's objective is to ensure the safe transit of international waterways for mariners and companies. The goal is to minimize the impact of Houthi attacks on the global economy, and efforts will continue to deter future attacks, ideally leading to a cessation of hostile actions by the rebel group.
