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U.S. Strikes Houthi Rebels in Yemen, Vows Overwhelming Force to Protect Global Shipping

The United States launched targeted airstrikes against Houthi-held areas in Yemen on Shabbos, sending a message to the Iran-backed rebels that their attacks on Israel and international shipping must stop. President Donald Trump promised to use “overwhelming lethal force” to protect American and global maritime interests, warning Iran that it will be held fully accountable for its support of the Houthi militia • Read More, Watch

The United States launched decisive airstrikes on Saturday against Houthi-held areas in Yemen, delivering a clear message to the Iran-backed rebels: attacks on international shipping will not be tolerated. President Donald Trump vowed to continue using “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis cease their attacks on commercial and military vessels in key maritime regions, stressing that the U.S. will hold Iran accountable for supporting the rebel group.

“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 posted on social media. “No terrorist force will stop American commercial and naval vessels from freely sailing the Waterways of the World.”

What We Know

Reports from the Houthis confirmed explosions in Sanaa, the capital, and the northern province of Saada, a stronghold of the rebels, following the airstrikes. Additional attacks were carried out early Sunday in the provinces of Hodeida, Bayda, and Marib. Witnesses shared images showing large plumes of smoke rising over the Sanaa airport complex, which hosts military facilities.

The Houthis reported at least 31 deaths and 101 injuries, as a result of the U.S. strikes.

A U.S. official confirmed that the airstrikes will continue, though the duration and exact scope of the operation remain undetermined.

Defending International Waters

The U.S. strikes come in direct response to the Houthis’ escalating attacks on international maritime trade routes. In recent months, the Houthis have increasingly targeted civilian and military ships, including over 100 merchant vessels, sinking two and killing four sailors. The attacks reached a critical point following the group’s threats to target Israeli ships in the Red Sea in retaliation for Israel’s blockade on Gaza.

President Trump’s action is aimed at stopping this campaign of terror that has disrupted vital global shipping routes and put lives at risk. The U.S. military has previously struck Houthi-held territories, but Saturday’s airstrike is the first operation under the second Trump administration. The U.S. is taking strong, unilateral action to protect international commerce and counter Iran’s destabilizing influence in the region.

The Houthis, however, have vowed retaliation. Houthi spokespersons dismissed the strikes as ineffective and misleading, claiming that the U.S. was falsely portraying the rebels as a threat to global shipping. Despite these claims, the Houthis’ actions over the past several months have proven otherwise, making it clear that the group poses a significant threat to international maritime stability.

Trump’s Firm Stance on Iran

This military action also comes amid ongoing tensions with Iran, which continues to support the Houthis in their efforts to destabilize the region. Just two weeks ago, Trump sent a letter to Iranian leaders offering a path for resuming nuclear talks, but with a firm commitment to preventing Iran from advancing its nuclear program. The U.S. has made it clear that it will not allow Iran to continue its destabilizing activities, whether through direct actions or by supporting proxy groups like the Houthis.

The U.S. airstrikes on Houthi positions are a necessary response to the growing threats against international shipping lanes and the safety of global trade. The U.S. has made it clear that it will not allow any terror group to jeopardize the free flow of commerce and the safety of sailors. With President Trump’s commitment to confronting Iran’s support for the Houthis, this operation marks a bold step toward restoring peace and stability to vital maritime routes.