The United States has vowed to continue military strikes on Yemen’s Houthi forces until they cease their attacks on international shipping, according to U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This comes after deadly airstrikes against the Houthis on Saturday, which the Houthi-run health ministry claims killed at least 31 people.
The attacks represent the largest U.S. military operation in the Middle East since President Donald Trump took office in January. U.S. officials suggest the strikes could continue for weeks.
In response, the Houthis labeled the U.S. actions a “war crime” and warned of escalating attacks. Moscow urged Washington to halt the strikes and engage in dialogue, while the Houthis’ military spokesperson claimed they targeted the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman with missiles and drones—an accusation the Pentagon dismissed.
Secretary Hegseth emphasized the importance of securing the freedom of navigation in the critical waterway, asserting that U.S. operations will persist until the Houthis halt their aggression against ships. He also accused Iran of enabling the Houthis’ actions, calling for Tehran to withdraw support for the group.
The Houthis have previously threatened to resume attacks on Israeli vessels in the Red Sea, linking their actions to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. They resumed shipping attacks in late 2023 after Israel’s war with Hamas, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
Iran’s top military commander, Hossein Salami, warned that Iran would respond forcefully if the U.S. escalates its actions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed concerns over Iran’s role in supporting the Houthis, suggesting that Tehran is ultimately responsible for the group’s attacks on global shipping.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called for an immediate halt to U.S. military actions, urging all parties to engage in diplomatic talks. Meanwhile, the strikes have caused significant casualties, with most of the 31 reported deaths being women and children.
The Houthis’ campaign against shipping has disrupted global trade, with the U.S. military engaged in costly operations to intercept missiles and drones. The group had temporarily suspended attacks following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in January but reaffirmed their threats to target Israeli vessels in March.
