Trump Launches Strikes Against Iran-Backed Houthi Rebels in Yemen, Issues Stern New Warning

President Donald Trump has ordered airstrikes on Houthi-held regions in Yemen, escalating tensions in the Middle East. This decision, announced on Saturday, follows threats from the Houthis to resume attacks on Israeli shipping in response to Israel’s blockade on Gaza. The strikes reportedly resulted in significant civilian casualties, with the Houthis claiming at least 18 deaths.

In a statement, Trump emphasized the U.S. military’s commitment, stating, “Our brave Warfighters are right now carrying out aerial attacks on the terrorists’ bases, leaders, and missile defenses to protect American shipping.” He pledged that American vessels would not be hindered in their operations across global waterways.

Trump’s message also included a warning to Iran, linking its support for the Houthis to the broader conflict. He has insisted that Iran will face consequences for the actions of its proxies. This escalation comes shortly after Trump reached out to Iranian leaders, suggesting a desire to restart dialogue regarding their advancing nuclear program.

Reports from the Houthi-controlled areas indicate that the capital, Sanaa, and the province of Saada experienced heavy bombardments, with continued strikes reported into Sunday. Images shared online depicted smoke rising from the vicinity of the Sanaa airport, a site that also holds military significance. Casualty reports from the Houthi-run health ministry detail that 18 individuals lost their lives, while numerous others sustained injuries.

A U.S. official indicated that the operation is the commencement of a broader campaign targeting Houthi assets. The strikes are anticipated to persist, aiming at degrading the militia’s missile capabilities and deterring future threats against international maritime routes.

In retaliation, the Houthis maintained their stance of resistance, vowing to counter U.S. military actions. Houthi spokesperson Mohamed Abdulsalam labeled Trump’s accusations about the threat to maritime safety as “false and misleading.”

Prior to the airstrikes, the Houthis had claimed they would resume attacks against Israeli interests due to the continued humanitarian crisis in Gaza, affecting strategic waterways such as the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Notably, their previous assaults had targeted over 100 vessels, with two confirmed sunk during earlier phases of conflict throughout the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

The civilian impact of the airstrikes has raised concerns, especially with reports emerging of strikes hitting populated neighborhoods. Residents described the blasts as deeply distressing, reminiscent of an earthquake, highlighting the dangers posed to non-combatants in the region.

The current operation marks a re-engagement by the U.S. against the Houthis and represents the first significant military action under Trump’s second term. U.S. naval forces, including the USS Harry S. Truman strike group, are actively involved in the region, emphasizing a heightened military presence aimed at ensuring navigation security amidst rising hostilities.

As the situation evolves, the implications for regional stability remain uncertain, with the potential for further escalation in hostilities between these factions.

Reporting contributed by AP from various locations, including contributions from White House Correspondent Zeke Miller.