The U.S. military conducted a series of strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen on Friday, targeting weapons systems, bases, and equipment belonging to the Iranian-backed rebels. The strikes, carried out by U.S. aircraft and ships, focused on Houthi strongholds across various locations in Yemen.
Reports indicate that the strikes hit multiple areas, including the airport in Hodeida, the Katheib area with a Houthi-controlled military base, the Seiyana area in Sanaa, and the Dhamar province. The exact number of targets hit during the operation is yet to be confirmed as the mission was ongoing at the time of reporting.
This military action follows recent threats by the Houthis to escalate operations targeting Israel, after allegedly shooting down a U.S. military drone over Yemen. Additionally, the group claimed responsibility for an attack on American warships last week.
According to U.S. officials, the rebels launched several ballistic missiles, anti-ship cruise missiles, and drones at three U.S. ships passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Fortunately, all incoming threats were intercepted by Navy destroyers, averting potential damage.
Since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza last October, the Houthis have targeted over 80 merchant vessels using missiles and drones. While some attacks have been thwarted by a U.S.-led coalition in the Red Sea, others have resulted in casualties and maritime disruptions.
The group claims to target ships associated with Israel, the U.S., or the U.K. in a bid to halt Israel's campaign against Hamas in Gaza. However, several vessels attacked have had minimal or no connection to the conflict, including those en route to Iran.
