The U.S. military launched a significant operation targeting underground bunkers used by Yemen's Houthi rebels with B-2 stealth bombers. This marked a major escalation in response to the rebels' attacks on Mideast shipping lanes, also serving as a warning to Iran.
The attack, the first use of the B-2 in combat in years, aimed at Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. The strikes targeted five hardened underground weapons storage locations, with the extent of the damage still unclear.
The Red Sea has become a battleground due to the Houthis' campaign targeting ships passing through the waterway. Since the conflict began in October 2023, over 80 merchant vessels have been targeted, resulting in casualties and disruptions to maritime traffic.
The rebels claim to target ships linked to Israel, the U.S., or the UK, seeking to end Israel's campaign against Hamas in Gaza. However, many vessels attacked have no connection to the conflict, including those bound for Iran.
The Houthis have also launched missiles at Israel and shot down U.S. military drones. The ongoing conflict has escalated tensions in the region, with the potential for a broader regional war looming.
The Houthis, engaged in a protracted war with a Saudi-led coalition since 2015, have fortified underground bases, including refurbished tunnels from the Saleh era. Analysts note the rebels' focus on bolstering military capabilities through tunnel networks and installations.
The B-2 stealth bombers, valued at $1 billion each, are rarely used in combat. The aircraft, based in Missouri, have seen action in various conflicts, including Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya. The recent use of the B-2 in Yemen underscores the complex dynamics at play in the region.
The strike comes amid warnings of escalating tensions in Yemen, with concerns raised about the impact on peace efforts and stability in the war-torn country. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely as the conflict shows no signs of abating.
