Trump Launches Military Strikes Against Houthi Rebels in Yemen Amid Rising Tensions
In a bold move, US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday an extensive military operation targeting the Houthi rebels in Yemen. This decision comes in response to the Houthis' aggressive actions against navigation, as Trump issued a stern warning to Iran to immediately halt its support for the insurgent group.
The President stated he has ordered the US Armed Forces to engage in airstrikes against Houthi bases, leaders, and missile defenses, aiming to protect American maritime, aerial, and naval assets and restore freedom of navigation in international waters. In a statement posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump emphasized the unwavering resolve of the United States to counter what he described as an "unrelenting campaign of piracy, violence, and terrorism" by the Houthis against American and allied shipping.
Reports from Yemen’s Health Ministry indicate that at least nine individuals have died and another nine have sustained injuries due to these strikes in Houthi-controlled areas of the capital, Sanaa. Trump made it clear that there would be no tolerance for terrorist actions impeding the flow of global trade and navigation. "To all Houthi terrorists: YOUR TIME IS UP. YOUR ATTACKS MUST STOP TODAY. If not, HELL WILL COME TO YOU LIKE NEVER BEFORE!" he declared.
The President reiterated that the United States would employ "overwhelming lethal force" to achieve its objectives, highlighting the critical role of unimpeded maritime transport in global commerce. He criticized the response of the previous administration, labeling it as pathetically weak and asserting that it contributed to financial losses and endangered lives.
Additionally, Trump’s message extended to Iran, warning that its continued support for the Houthis must cease immediately. He cautioned Tehran against threatening the American people or international shipping routes, making it clear that the US would hold Iran accountable for its actions.
The Houthi movement, which has intensified its engagements against Israel and commercial navigation in the Red and Arabian Seas, has been particularly aggressive since the onset of the conflict in Gaza on October 7, 2023, marked by notable escalations in violence. As the situation unfolds, the implications of this military action are likely to reverberate across global markets and diplomatic relations.
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