US President Donald Trump launched major military strikes against Yemen’s Houthis on Saturday in response to their attacks on Red Sea shipping, killing at least 31 people. Officials stated that the operation, expected to last for weeks, marks the largest US military action in the Middle East since Trump took office. The strikes coincided with increased US sanctions on Iran amid diplomatic efforts over its nuclear program.
Trump issued a stern warning to the Houthis, vowing further attacks if their assaults continued. The Houthi-run health ministry reported that the strikes resulted in 31 deaths and 101 injuries, mostly among women and children.
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The Houthis condemned the attack as a “war crime” and pledged retaliation. Residents in Sanaa and Taiz described powerful explosions that shook buildings and caused widespread fear.
US Central Command confirmed that the strikes targeted multiple Houthi military sites, with fighter jets from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier participating. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that attacks on US vessels and troops would not be tolerated, declaring that “freedom of navigation will be restored.” Trump warned that further “overwhelming lethal force” could be used against the Houthis if necessary.
Iran criticized the US action, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi condemning American interference and urging an end to support for Israel’s military actions. The situation remains volatile as tensions escalate between the US, Iran, and the Houthi movement.
