Trump Orders Airstrikes on Houthis in Yemen, Escalating Conflict

President Donald Trump orders airstrikes on Houthis in Yemen, escalating tensions in the region. The strikes targeted Iran-backed rebels to halt their attacks on maritime trade routes. The rebels confirmed at least 31 people were killed.

Trump Orders Airstrikes on Houthis and Issues Stern Warning

“Our brave Warfighters are right now carrying out aerial attacks on the terrorists’ bases, leaders, and missile defenses to protect American shipping, air, and naval assets, and to restore Navigational Freedom,” Trump declared in a social media post. He vowed the U.S. would use “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis stop attacking global commerce.

The president also warned Iran to end its support for the Houthis or face consequences. “No terrorist force will stop American commercial and naval vessels from freely sailing the Waterways of the World,” he added, reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy against threats to U.S. interests.

Trump Orders Devastating Airstrikes on Houthis in Yemen

Trump orders airstrikes on Houthis in multiple locations, including the capital Sanaa and the northern province of Saada. Explosions also hit Hodeida, Bayda, and Marib provinces. Videos online showed black smoke rising from the Sanaa airport complex, which includes a military facility.

The Houthi-run Health Ministry reported 31 deaths, including women and children, with 101 others wounded. Witnesses described the strikes as powerful and terrifying.

“The explosions were very strong,” said Abdallah al-Alffi, a resident of Sanaa’s Eastern Geraf neighborhood. “It was like an earthquake.”

Houthis Vow Retaliation

Despite heavy losses, the Houthis remain defiant. Nasruddin Amer, deputy head of the rebel media office, stated the airstrikes would not weaken their resolve. “Sanaa will remain Gaza’s shield and support and will not abandon it no matter the challenges,” he posted on social media.

Houthi spokesperson Mohamed Abdulsalam rejected Trump’s claims that they threaten international shipping, calling them “false and misleading.”

U.S. Military Strength on Full Display

A U.S. defense official confirmed the strikes mark the start of a broader campaign against Houthi targets. The USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group, consisting of three Navy destroyers and one cruiser, played a key role in the operation. The USS Georgia cruise missile submarine is also stationed in the region to maintain pressure on the Houthis.

Background: The Houthi Threat to Global Trade

The airstrikes follow the Houthis’ renewed attacks on Israeli vessels in response to Israel’s latest blockade on Gaza. In recent months, the rebels have launched over 100 attacks on commercial and military ships, sinking two vessels and killing four sailors. Their campaign has disrupted vital trade routes through the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, raising global security concerns.

Trump’s Firm Stance Amid Rising Global Tensions

This military action marks the first U.S. strike on the Houthis under Trump’s second term. The Biden administration had previously conducted multiple airstrikes against the group in response to attacks on international vessels.

“These relentless assaults have cost the U.S. and World Economy many BILLIONS of Dollars while, at the same time, putting innocent lives at risk,” Trump said, reaffirming his commitment to protecting global trade and American interests.

As the situation escalates, the world watches how Iran and the Houthis will respond to these latest U.S. airstrikes. The key question remains: Will Trump’s show of force deter further aggression or ignite a broader conflict in the region?

RELATED STORY: Iran Denies Involvement with Yemen’s Houthi Rebels

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