U.S. Launches Retaliatory Strikes Against Iranian-Backed Houthi Militants in Red Sea to Prevent Future Conflict
In a bid to prevent future conflict, the United States has launched retaliatory strikes against Iranian-backed Houthi militants in the Red Sea. General CQ Brown, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, emphasized that the U.S. does not want to escalate the situation further. In an exclusive interview with ABC News Chief Global Affairs Correspondent Martha Raddatz, General Brown shed light on the motivations behind these strikes.
The Houthis, who have been intensifying their attacks off the shores of Yemen, targeted a British-operated oil tanker in the Gulf of Aden with an anti-ship ballistic missile. Fortunately, the missile was intercepted and destroyed by the U.S. Navy destroyer USS Carney, averting any damage. However, another missile hit its mark, setting the oil tanker ablaze.
General Brown’s interview with Martha Raddatz will be aired on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday, providing further insight into the situation. Raddatz questioned General Brown about criticisms suggesting that the Biden administration is not taking a tough enough stance against these militants and Iran, which is accused of financing the attacks. In response, General Brown posed a crucial question: “What do they want? A broader conflict? Do you want us on a full-scale war?” He emphasized that the goal is deterrence while safeguarding U.S. forces.
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff stressed the importance of a thoughtful approach in dealing with these groups, acknowledging the unpredictability of their responses. He highlighted the need to protect key partner forces while neutralizing their capabilities. General Brown reiterated that the U.S. aims to avoid escalating the situation into a broader conflict within the region.
The Houthis claim that their attacks in the Red Sea are retaliation for U.S. and British support of Israel’s war against Hamas. The recent attack on the British-operated oil tanker resulted in significant damage, forcing the crew to abandon ship. Fortunately, they were able to board a lifeboat, and the USS Carney and a French warship were dispatched to provide assistance.
While some lawmakers, including Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Mike Johnson, have welcomed the U.S.-led strikes as necessary and overdue, others have insisted on congressional consultation. A bipartisan group of 22 House lawmakers sent a letter to President Joe Biden, labeling the strikes as “unauthorized.” Similarly, a group of bipartisan senators, including Senators Tim Kaine and Todd Young, urged the administration to seek authorization from Congress before involving the U.S. in another conflict in the Middle East.
The Pentagon has defended the strikes as an act of self-defense, asserting that pre-authorization from Congress is not required. However, the calls for congressional involvement highlight the need for transparency and accountability in matters of military action.
As tensions continue to rise in the Red Sea, the U.S. remains committed to deterring future conflict while ensuring the safety of its forces. The situation calls for a delicate balance between protecting key partner forces and avoiding further escalation. The world watches with bated breath as the United States navigates this complex geopolitical landscape.