US Commits to Military Action Against Houthis Amid Shipping Attacks

The US has launched significant airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthis in response to threats on shipping. The Houthis vow to target US vessels if attacks continue, causing civilian casualties and drawing international criticism. Iran warns against escalating the conflict. The UN calls for restraint amidst concerns over global trade disruption and humanitarian crises in Yemen.

The United States has initiated airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthis to address their threats against shipping in the Red Sea. The aggression from the Houthis prompted expressions of concern from Iran regarding the potential for escalation. The US airstrikes reportedly resulted in the deaths of 53 individuals, including civilians, and are deemed the largest military action by the US in the Middle East since the Trump administration began.

The Houthis’ leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, has threatened to continue targeting US ships as long as the US persists with its military actions. The movement’s political bureau has labeled the strikes as war crimes, while Russia has urged the US to halt its offensive. Despite claims from Houthis of targeting a US aircraft carrier, US officials reported that their warplanes successfully intercepted multiple Houthi drones, which posed no threat.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the commitment to continue military operations until the Houthis cease their attacks on shipping. He stated that safeguarding navigation in the region is a crucial national interest for the United States. Meanwhile, the Houthis have reaffirmed their intention to attack Israeli vessels if humanitarian restrictions for Gaza are not lifted.

In a retaliatory posture, Iran has warned the US against escalating tensions, asserting that the Houthis act independently. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for restraint, emphasizing that escalating military actions could exacerbate Yemen’s precarious humanitarian crisis. Additionally, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the Houthis would not be capable of their current actions without Iranian support, underlining the crucial nature of Iran’s involvement in the conflict.

Reports suggest that civilian casualties occurred during the strikes, with numerous injured and fatalities, including women and children. Local witnesses described the attacks as devastating, causing extensive damage and distress. The ongoing Houthi assaults on shipping have disrupted critical global trade routes, compelling the US military into costly engagements to safeguard navigation. The Houthis had previously paused their attacks during a ceasefire in Gaza but have reinstated threats amid ongoing tensions.

The US has declared its intention to persist with military operations against Yemen’s Houthis until they cease attacks on shipping. The airstrikes have resulted in significant casualties and have drawn international condemnation due to impacts on civilians. As Iran warns the US, the potential for escalation remains high, with the United Nations advocating for restraint. The situation continues to affect global trade and humanitarian conditions within Yemen, underscoring the urgent need for a diplomatic resolution.

Original Source: www.indiatoday.in