U.S. and U.K. Launch Airstrikes in Yemen to Stop Iran-Backed Houthi Attacks on Red Sea Ships
In a joint effort to protect international shipping and maintain stability in the Red Sea, the United States and the United Kingdom conducted airstrikes against eight targets in Yemen. The airstrikes were aimed at deterring Iran-backed Houthi militants from launching attacks on ships in the region. Despite repeated Houthi attacks, the White House has affirmed the effectiveness of the retaliatory strikes.
The joint statement released by the nations involved in Monday’s airstrikes emphasized the proportionate and necessary nature of the strikes. The militaries of the U.S. and U.K., with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, carried out precision strikes to disrupt and degrade the capabilities of the Houthis. These capabilities pose a threat to global trade and the lives of innocent mariners.
The statement further highlighted the illegal, dangerous, and destabilizing actions of the Houthis since previous coalition strikes on January 11. These actions included anti-ship ballistic missile and unmanned aerial system attacks on two U.S.-owned merchant vessels. The airstrikes specifically targeted a Houthi underground storage site and locations associated with their missile and air surveillance capabilities.
While emphasizing their commitment to de-escalating tensions and restoring stability, the countries involved made it clear that they would not hesitate to defend lives and ensure the free flow of commerce in one of the world’s most critical waterways. The joint airstrike with the United Kingdom mirrored the initial airstrikes on January 11, which targeted 28 Houthi locations linked to attacks on commercial shipping lanes in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Despite previous airstrikes, the Houthis have persisted in launching missiles and drones at commercial ships in the region. These attacks have escalated to over 30 incidents since mid-November. Last week, two U.S.-owned vessels were struck, resulting in minor damage but no injuries. The ongoing threat posed by the Houthis necessitated the recent airstrikes.
Prior to the airstrikes, President Joe Biden held a phone conversation with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The leaders reiterated their commitment to freedom of navigation, international commerce, and the defense of mariners against illegal attacks. They also discussed the importance of increasing humanitarian aid and civilian protections in Gaza, as well as securing the release of hostages held by Hamas. Additionally, they expressed their support for Ukraine in its efforts to defend itself against Russia’s aggression.
The joint airstrikes conducted by the U.S. and U.K. demonstrate a strong stance against the Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. With the support of allied nations, these strikes aim to disrupt the capabilities of the Houthis and safeguard global trade and innocent lives. As tensions persist in the region, it remains to be seen how the situation will evolve and whether further actions will be necessary to ensure stability and security.