New images from the White House show President Donald Trump observing U.S. military airstrikes targeting Iranian-supported Houthi positions in Yemen. This action is part of a broader U.S. campaign against the group. The White House emphasized that these strikes aim to protect American shipping interests and counter terrorist threats, highlighting that such threats have persisted for too long.
In the released photos, Trump is seen in casual attire, including his well-known red cap, as he watches the operation unfold on a screen. Another image shows him wearing a headset. This military action follows Trump's directive for the U.S. military to execute decisive strikes against Houthi targets to safeguard American maritime and aerial assets and ensure freedom of navigation.
The U.S. Central Command confirmed the precision strikes, aimed at defending American interests and restoring navigational freedom. Meanwhile, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce noted that Secretary of State Marco Rubio communicated with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov about these operations, stressing that continued Houthi aggression against U.S. vessels would not be tolerated.
According to reports, the Houthi-controlled Health Ministry in Yemen stated that the strikes resulted in at least 31 casualties. The Houthis have a history of targeting international shipping in the Red Sea and have previously launched attacks in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. These actions ceased with a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas but were threatened to resume following recent tensions.
The U.S. has long accused Iran of supplying military support to the Houthis, with the U.S. Navy intercepting Iranian-made weaponry intended for the group. Iran, however, denies involvement in Houthi attacks. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called for the U.S. to cease its military actions, asserting that Washington cannot dictate Iran's foreign policy.
Trump has made it clear that Houthi attacks on American vessels will not be tolerated, vowing to use overwhelming force to achieve U.S. objectives. He criticized the previous administration's response as weak, claiming it allowed the Houthis to continue their aggressive actions. Trump also highlighted the economic impact of these attacks, which have disrupted global commerce and endangered lives.
The recent U.S. operation marks the first strike against the Houthis under Trump's current term. It follows his outreach to Iranian leaders, suggesting a potential path for renewed talks on Iran's nuclear program, which he has vowed to prevent from becoming operational. The Trump administration recently reclassified the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization, reversing a decision made during the Biden administration.