The U.S. and British militaries have launched a massive retaliatory strike against the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. Using warship-launched Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets, more than a dozen sites used by the Houthis were targeted. These military targets included logistical hubs, air defense systems, and weapons storage locations.
This marks the first military response by the United States against the Houthis, who have been engaging in a persistent campaign of drone and missile attacks on commercial ships since the conflict in Israel began. Just a week prior, the White House, along with several partner nations, issued a final warning to the Houthis, urging them to cease their attacks or face potential military action.
The coordinated military assault comes as a result of the Houthi rebels ignoring this warning and escalating their attacks. On Tuesday, they launched their largest-ever barrage of drones and missiles, specifically targeting shipping in the Red Sea. In response, U.S. and British ships, along with American fighter jets, successfully shot down 18 drones, two cruise missiles, and an anti-ship missile.
Furthermore, on Thursday, the Houthis fired an anti-ship ballistic missile into the Gulf of Aden. Although it was spotted by a commercial ship, it did not hit its target. These consistent acts of aggression by the rebels have prompted a robust military response from the United States and its allies.
It is worth noting that the rebels have carried out a staggering 27 attacks involving dozens of drones and missiles since November 19 alone. In light of these recent strikes, they have issued a warning that any attack by American forces on their sites in Yemen will be met with a fierce military response. The situation in Yemen continues to be volatile and closely monitored by military officials.
