The Houthi rebels in Yemen have pledged to respond after U.S. military strikes ordered by President Trump resulted in significant casualties. The Iran-supported group claims that the attacks, which they say killed at least 31 people, included women and children among the victims.
These strikes represent the most substantial U.S. military intervention in the region since Trump assumed office. The Houthis, who have previously launched assaults on Israel and threatened Red Sea shipping in support of Hamas, paused their campaign following a cease-fire in Gaza. However, they have threatened to resume attacks after Israel imposed a blockade on aid to Gaza.
The U.S. airstrikes targeted several Houthi-controlled regions in Yemen, including the capital Sana, and the provinces of Saada, al-Bayda, Hajjah, and Dhamar. According to Houthi media, the strikes resulted in at least 31 deaths and 101 injuries, predominantly affecting women and children, as reported by Anis al-Asbahi from the Houthi health ministry. These figures have not been independently confirmed, and the U.S. has not provided its own casualty estimates.
Michael Waltz, Trump's national security adviser, described the strikes as successful, stating they targeted Houthi leadership and infrastructure. He likened the Houthis to "Al Qaeda with advanced Iranian-backed defenses and weaponry," highlighting their threat to global stability.