The United States has escalated its military involvement in Yemen by launching B-2 stealth bomber strikes against Houthi targets for the first time. The U.S. Air Force executed precision attacks on five underground weapons facilities located in Houthi-controlled areas, including the capital Sana and the northern governorate of Saada.
This operation aimed to degrade the Houthis’ capabilities to disrupt maritime shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which they have been targeting as part of their response to regional conflicts, particularly the ongoing situation in Gaza.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin stated that these strikes were necessary to protect American forces and ensure the safety of international shipping routes vital for global trade. The B-2 bombers, known for their ability to penetrate heavily fortified positions, delivered a significant payload designed to destroy advanced weaponry used by the Houthis against both civilian and military vessels.
Austin emphasized that this operation showcased the U.S.’s commitment to countering threats from adversaries like Iran, which backs the Houthi movement.
In retaliation, Houthi officials vowed to respond to what they termed American aggression, asserting that such actions would not deter their support for Palestinian causes. The Houthis have been involved in a series of attacks on vessels in the region, framing these operations as solidarity with Palestinians amid escalating violence in Gaza.
This military action marks a notable shift in U.S. strategy in Yemen, as it utilizes high-value assets like the B-2 bombers, which had not been deployed since 2017. The situation continues to evolve amidst rising tensions across the Middle East.
