U.S. and Britain Strike 18 Houthi Targets in Yemen in Response to Militia's Attacks on Ships

The United States and Britain have conducted a series of coordinated airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen in response to the recent surge in attacks by the Iran-backed militia group on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Coordinated Airstrikes on 18 Houthi Targets

American and British fighter jets launched strikes on 18 Houthi targets in Yemen, hitting sites in eight locations. The targets included missiles, launchers, rockets, drones, air defense systems, as well as underground storage facilities, and radar installations. The U.S. F/A-18 fighter jets operated from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier currently deployed in the Red Sea.

Military Operation Details and Statements

The U.S. officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, provided early details of the military operation. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized that the United States will take necessary actions to defend lives and ensure the free flow of commerce in the Red Sea, a critical waterway.

British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps stated that RAF Typhoon jets engaged in precision strikes to degrade Houthi drones and launchers. This action followed severe Houthi attacks on commercial ships, including those owned by the UK, in the region.

International Support and Coalition's Position

The airstrikes had support from the broader coalition, which includes Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. The U.S. and its allies have repeatedly warned that they will not tolerate Houthi attacks against commercial shipping.

The Houthis have been escalating their attacks on commercial and military ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with at least 57 attacks reported since November 19. The U.S. and its allies have also witnessed an increase in Houthi attacks in the past 48 to 72 hours, further highlighting the need for a response to deter these actions.

Impact on Commercial Shipping

The persistent targeting and near misses by the Houthis have prompted shipping companies to reroute their vessels from the Red Sea, opting for the longer and costlier route around Africa. The threats have led the U.S. and its allies to set up a joint mission to provide air defense protection for ships traveling through the region.

Environmental Concerns and Humanitarian Appeal

The attacks have also raised environmental concerns, as evidenced by an 18-mile oil slick caused by a Houthi attack on a Belize-flagged ship in February. Yemen's internationally recognized government has called for swift action to address the oil slick and avert a significant environmental disaster.

Ongoing Confrontation and Continuous Pressure

The latest airstrikes represent the fourth combined operation against the Houthis since January 12. Despite the ongoing pressure, the Houthis have continued their campaign against shipping in the region, posing a challenge to the free flow of commerce and stability in the Red Sea.

The airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen reflect the escalating tensions in the region and the international community's determination to safeguard vital waterways and protect commercial shipping from Houthi attacks.