Trump Orders Airstrikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen

President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he had ordered a series of airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, aiming to curb attacks on key maritime routes. The strikes come as part of the U.S. effort to protect American shipping and naval assets, with Trump pledging "overwhelming lethal force" until the Iranian-backed rebels cease their actions.

The Houthis reported at least 18 civilian deaths from the airstrikes, which targeted areas including the capital, Sanaa, and the northern province of Saada, the group's stronghold near the Saudi border. According to the Houthi-run health ministry, 13 people died in Sanaa and five in Saada, with dozens more injured. The strikes also targeted Hodeida, Bayda, and Marib provinces.

Trump stated that the U.S. military was targeting Houthi "terrorist bases, leaders, and missile defenses" to safeguard American interests and restore "Navigational Freedom." He also warned Iran, which supports the Houthis, that it would be held “fully accountable” for the group’s actions. This comes after Trump sent a letter to Iranian leaders proposing talks on Iran’s nuclear program, which he has vowed to prevent from becoming operational.

A U.S. official confirmed that these airstrikes mark the start of a sustained campaign against Houthi positions, with additional operations expected. Meanwhile, Houthi officials dismissed Trump’s claims that their actions threaten international shipping, calling them "false and misleading."

The Houthis have been a growing threat to international shipping, having targeted over 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in 2023. Their attacks have sunk two ships and killed four sailors.

The airstrikes were carried out by the U.S., with the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group participating in the operation. The strikes are part of the U.S.'s broader strategy to address Houthi aggression in the region.

Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have been escalating, with Trump reaffirming his commitment to curbing Iran's influence in the Middle East.