U.S. Launches Retaliatory Strike on Houthi Targets in Yemen Amid Continued Attacks on International Ships
In a bold move, the United States has launched a retaliatory strike against Houthi targets in Yemen. This action comes in response to the group’s persistent attacks on international ships in the region. The strike targeted five areas in Yemen, including the governorates of Hodeidah, Taiz, Dhamar, Bayda, and Saada.
According to the Sanaa-Saba press agency, the Houthi state media claimed that the strike also targeted the Houthi state media itself. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the strike aimed at 14 Iranian-made Houthi missiles that were ready to be fired in Houthi-controlled areas.
The U.S. justified its actions by stating that these missiles posed an imminent threat to merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships in the region. The U.S. forces exercised their right and obligation to defend themselves against this potential danger. Tomahawk cruise missiles were used in the strike and were launched from both U.S. Navy surface ships and a submarine.
While the U.S. has acknowledged its involvement in the strike, Houthi state media has blamed the U.S. and the U.K. for the attacks. It is worth noting that the U.S. is the only country that has taken responsibility for the strike.
This retaliatory strike comes after a recent incident where a drone from the Houthi-controlled area in Yemen hit a U.S.-flagged carrier ship in the Gulf of Aden. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the bulk carrier ship remains seaworthy, although some damage has been reported.
The shipping company, Genco Shipping, confirmed the incident on its freighter, the M/V Genco Picardy, as it transited through the Gulf of Aden. The company stated that all seafarers aboard the vessel are uninjured, and an initial inspection by the crew indicates limited damage to the vessel’s gangway. The vessel has remained stable and is continuing its course out of the area.
In an effort to prevent further attacks on vital Middle Eastern shipping lanes, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the U.S. would once again classify the Houthi rebel group as a terrorist organization. This move is expected to enable the U.S. to more effectively restrict the group’s access to financial support.
Blinken emphasized that the restrictions and penalties associated with this designation would not take effect for 30 days. This delay is intended to ensure that the flow of aid and commercial goods to Yemeni civilians is minimally impacted. He stated, “The Houthis must be held accountable for their actions, but it should not be at the expense of Yemeni civilians.”
Furthermore, Blinken made it clear that the decision could be reversed if the Houthis cease their attacks on maritime traffic. He stated, “If the Houthis cease their attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the United States will reevaluate this designation.”
The situation in Yemen remains tense as international actors navigate the complex dynamics of the conflict. The U.S. retaliatory strike sends a strong message that it will not tolerate threats to its ships and personnel. However, the hope is that a peaceful resolution can be achieved, one that prioritizes the safety and well-being of Yemeni civilians.