Trump orders halt to US bombings in Yemen amidst Houthi capitulation

In March 2023, the United States initiated airstrikes against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, responding to their threats against maritime vessels in the Red Sea. Following increased tensions and targeted attacks on American shipping, President Donald Trump declared a significant shift in strategy. On a Tuesday in early May 2025, he announced the cessation of bombings against the Houthis after they expressed a desire to cease hostilities and promised not to target American ships anymore. The announcement marked a pivotal moment in US foreign policy and military engagement in the region. The ceasefire was facilitated through diplomatic efforts by Oman, which acted as a mediator between the US and the Houthis. Trump spoke alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during the announcement, labeling the Houthis' capitulation as a positive development. He noted the cessation of US airstrikes was in light of assurances from the Houthi leadership that they would halt attacks on maritime targets in exchange for a cessation of bombings by the US military. This diplomatic breakthrough was expected to have far-reaching implications for maritime security and regional stability. The US bombing campaign commenced in response to escalating threats from the Houthis, particularly their campaign of missile and drone attacks targeting vessels believed to be connected to Israel. The Houthi attacks had disrupted vital shipping lanes, contributing to significant changes in maritime trade routes in the region. With approximately 15% of global seaborne trade passing through the Red Sea, the Houthi actions raised alarm among international shipping companies, prompting them to seek alternative routes that lengthened delivery times and increased overall shipping costs. In light of the ongoing tensions involving Israel and the Houthis, uncertainty remains regarding how the ceasefire will affect Israeli military operations and the Houthis' capabilities to strike. The US military's role had become increasingly complex, not only due to the dynamics of its engagement with the Houthis but also looking ahead to potential negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program. Trump’s announcement brought a momentary lull in hostilities but also sparked discussions about the future of US involvement in Yemen and the broader Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape.