The United States carried out precision strikes targeting five underground weapons storage locations in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, as announced by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. These strikes were aimed at disrupting the Houthis’ ability to target civilian and military vessels in the region.
This military action follows 15 previous strikes against Houthi targets earlier in the month. The Houthi rebels have been responsible for numerous attacks on ships in the Red Sea, causing destruction and loss of life.
Houthis’ Threat in the Red Sea
Since November, the Houthis have carried out close to 100 attacks on vessels crossing the Red Sea, resulting in the sinking of two ships, seizure of another, and the tragic deaths of seafarers. These actions have been linked to their support for Palestinians in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The US Central Command has stated that their assessments indicate no civilian casualties resulting from these strikes.