In a recent development, it has been reported that the United States, along with their allies in the U.K., has commenced strikes on the Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen. The extent of these strikes is currently unknown, but they come as a response to the Houthi group's repeated missile and drone attacks on U.S. positions and commercial vessels in the Middle East over the past few months.
These recent strikes are a direct result of approximately 130 attacks carried out by the Houthi group. Despite ongoing aggression, the White House has currently called a lid, indicating that President Biden has retired for the night. It is worth noting that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is currently unavailable, further adding to the complexity of the situation.
Pentagon spokespersons have previously emphasized the need for Iranian proxies to cease their attacks, warning that appropriate action would be taken to protect U.S. forces if necessary. Now, as strikes by the U.S. and its allies are underway, their effectiveness remains uncertain. According to the Wall Street Journal, the Houthi forces anticipated these attacks and took measures such as transporting weapons and fortifying positions, while militants evacuated the city of Hodeidah in the Red Sea.
This development comes at a time when the Middle East is marred by escalating conflicts. Questions have arisen regarding the perceived lack of leadership demonstrated by the White House and the Pentagon. Concerns have been raised about the apparent absence of a clear direction amidst the region's turmoil.
Though details are still emerging, initial reports indicate that over a dozen locations within Yemen have been targeted. A combination of surface and air weapons, including F-18s from the USS Eisenhower, are believed to have been deployed in these strikes.
As the situation unfolds, there are mounting speculations as to whether the president will address the nation, especially in light of the absence of a defense secretary who can provide updates from the administration. However, it appears highly unlikely that the lid will be lifted, suggesting that any communication from the president regarding these strikes will likely be in the form of a written statement.
As more information becomes available, further analysis will be necessary to understand the implications of these strikes on the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the broader geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
