US strikes in Yemen kill 53, Houthis vow retaliation

English , Middle East - مشرق وسطٰی , Snippets , / Monday, March 17th, 2025

Download this post as PDF

RKI Network
Fresh US airstrikes in Yemen have led to the death of 53 people, including five children, according to the Houthi rebels. The strikes, which targeted areas in Al Jaouf and Hudaydah early on Monday, are part of Washington’s ongoing efforts to curb Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. The US Central Command confirmed the continuation of operations but did not release further details about the casualties.
The airstrikes, described by Washington as “decisive and powerful,” came after the Houthis’ attack on shipping lanes in the Red Sea, which is vital for global trade. The US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz confirmed the strikes targeted Houthi leaders, claiming they had taken out multiple high-ranking figures.
The Houthis have vowed to continue targeting US vessels in the Red Sea unless the US halts its attacks on Yemen. This escalation follows the Houthis’ support for Palestinians in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and their claims of targeting only ships connected to the US, Israel, or the UK.
Since November 2023, the Houthis have intensified their attacks on merchant vessels, with multiple strikes in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. These attacks have led to sunk vessels and casualties among crews.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the campaign would continue until Houthi aggression ceases. Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister condemned the US strikes, calling for an end to what he termed “Israeli genocide” and demanding respect for Yemen’s sovereignty.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged for restraint and a cessation of all military activities in Yemen to prevent further escalation.