U.S. airstrikes in Yemen escalate against Houthi rebels
- U.S. airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen have intensified since March 15, resulting in significant casualties.
- At least 53 people have been killed in the airstrikes initiated by the Trump administration, with a focus on disrupting the Houthis' military capabilities.
- The campaign has sparked concerns over humanitarian issues and has further complicated the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
Yemen has been suffering from a prolonged conflict, leading to a humanitarian crisis. The latest series of U.S. airstrikes began on March 15, 2025, aimed at Houthi rebels amid rising tensions concerning maritime trade and threats against regional allies, particularly Israel. U.S. President Donald Trump initiated these strikes as part of a broader strategy to weaken the influence of Iran, the Houthis' main supporter, which has been deeply involved in Yemeni affairs since the conflict escalated. As the airstrikes continue, they have killed at least 53 individuals in the initial phases, indicating the severity and intent behind the U.S. military campaign. On March 24, 2025, a specific strike hit a building in Sanaa, resulting in one death and over a dozen injuries as reported by Houthis through their news agency, SABA. This attack has drawn criticisms regarding the collateral damage and effectiveness of U.S. operations. Although U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz claims that key Houthi leaders, including those responsible for missile operations, have been targeted, the Houthis remain dismissive of the extent of these losses, likely as a tactic to maintain public morale among their supporters. The Houthis have a history of aggressive military actions, especially concerning maritime threats, having targeted over 100 vessels with missiles and drones prior to the airstrikes and sinking two ships last year. Their intention to disrupt shipping may be partly rooted in grievances about aid blockage to Gaza by Israel, heightening their regional threat profile. The air raids have strategically targeted critical Houthi infrastructures, including command centers, communications nodes, and weapons factories, indicating a focused military approach by U.S. forces. This ongoing conflict continues to strain Yemen's already crippled economy, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis further as the country is the poorest nation in the Arab world. The U.S. strikes and Houthi responses reveal the complexity of the conflict, indicating a war characterized by cross-border repercussions involving regional powers. As the humanitarian situation grows dire, the international community's concern increases over civilian casualties, and the calls for a negotiated resolution amidst the warfare become increasingly urgent.