The United States has launched a “decisive and powerful” wave of airstrikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen, President Donald Trump announced, citing the armed group’s repeated attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.

“Funded by Iran, the Houthi thugs have fired missiles at US aircraft and targeted our troops and allies,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He condemned their “piracy, violence, and terrorism,” saying it had caused billions in damages and put lives at risk.

The Houthi-run health ministry reported at least 15 deaths and nine injuries in the strikes even as the rebels vowed retaliation. Explosions were reported in Sanaa and Saada, with images showing black smoke over the Yemeni capital’s airport.

Since November 2023, the Houthis have targeted dozens of merchant vessels with missiles, drones, and boat attacks, sinking two ships and seizing another. They claim to be acting in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza but have disrupted global trade, forcing major shipping companies to reroute vessels around Africa.

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Despite previous US and UK-led strikes, the Houthis remain defiant. “This aggression will not go without response, and our Yemeni armed forces are ready to answer escalation with further escalation,” the group declared.

Trump issued a direct warning, vowing that if the Houthis did not stop, “HELL WILL RAIN DOWN UPON YOU LIKE NOTHING YOU HAVE EVER SEEN BEFORE.” He also put Iran “on notice,” accusing it of backing the rebels and threatening serious consequences if it continued its support.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced the message, stating that Iran’s involvement would not go unpunished. Meanwhile, the UK, though not participating in this latest round of strikes, provided routine refuelling support for US operations.

As tensions escalate, the conflict in the Red Sea remains a major threat to global shipping and regional stability.

Reported by BBC