The United States and the United Kingdom have conducted joint air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, aiming to disrupt the group’s missile and surveillance capabilities and protect Red Sea trade routes. This coordinated military action, involving precision strikes on various targets including an underground storage site near Sanaa, marks the eighth US strike and the second joint operation with the UK in Yemen. The UK Foreign Secretary emphasized the strikes’ role in conveying a strong message against Houthi aggressions and maintaining regional stability, amidst concerns of escalating Middle East tensions.
by Fatima Abass
In a significant escalation of military involvement in the Yemeni conflict, the US and UK forces have jointly executed a series of air strikes against Houthi rebel targets. The Pentagon confirmed the operation targeted eight strategic locations, including missile facilities and an underground storage site, as part of efforts to curb Houthi assaults on international shipping in the Red Sea.
This operation marks a continuation of the Western powers’ involvement in the region, following earlier strikes aimed at degrading the Houthis’ military capabilities. The Iran-backed Houthis have intensified their activities against what they perceive as Western and Israeli interests, particularly targeting ships traversing the critical Red Sea trade route. The US and UK assert their actions are defensive, intended to secure the free flow of commerce and reduce regional tensions.
UK Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron highlighted the strikes’ role in delivering a clear message to the Houthis, stressing the need to degrade their capacity for launching attacks. Despite concerns about escalating conflicts in the Middle East, Lord Cameron remains confident in the effectiveness of these military actions and dismisses the Houthis’ narrative linking the strikes to the broader Israel-Hamas conflict.
The joint statement from the Pentagon emphasizes the strikes as proportionate and necessary, warning the Houthi leadership of further defensive actions if threats continue. This latest operation, the second in collaboration with the UK, underscores the Western allies’ commitment to maintaining stability in one of the world’s most vital waterways.
Participation from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands in the operation indicates broad international support. Meanwhile, the UK Labour Party, expressing concerns about the strikes, seeks a government statement in Parliament, emphasizing the need for transparency and risk management.
The US deployed fighter jets from the USS Eisenhower, and the UK contributed RAF Typhoons, using precision-guided bombs for the strikes. The UK Ministry of Defence assured that extensive planning was undertaken to minimize civilian casualties, with strikes conducted at night to further reduce risks.
The recent strikes, part of the Operation Poseidon Archer, represent a firm stance by the US and UK against Houthi aggressions, aiming to safeguard international trade routes and uphold regional stability. However, the situation remains tense, with the Houthis continuing their defiant stance and the potential for further escalation in the region.
(Associated Medias | FAD) – All rights reserved.