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US Airstrikes in Yemen Reportedly Result in Multiple Casualties
American air attacks targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen reportedly caused significant casualties, with Houthi-affiliated media outlets stating early Friday that 33 individuals were killed and 80 others wounded. If verified, this incident would represent one of the deadliest episodes in the ongoing campaign initiated during the administration of former US President Donald Trump, which has encompassed hundreds of strikes since March 15.
Ras Isa Oil Port Targeted in US Operations
The strikes concentrated on the Ras Isa oil port, according to the US Central Command. Military authorities stated the objective was to deny the insurgents access to “illicit revenue streams” purportedly used to finance Houthi activities aimed at destabilizing the region for over a decade.
Central Command officials asserted, “This strike was not intended to harm the people of Yemen, who rightfully aspire to break free from Houthi subjugation and live peacefully.” The statement did not include any acknowledgement of casualties.
Houthi Media Reports Aftermath of Strikes
Al-Masirah, the Houthi satellite news channel, broadcast graphic footage depicting the aftermath of the aerial assault. The visuals displayed bodies scattered across the affected area. The news outlet asserted that paramedics and civilian personnel stationed at the port were among those killed in the operation, which reportedly triggered a substantial explosion and subsequent fires.
US Warning Regarding Oil Shipments to Yemen
Prior to the airstrikes, on April 9th, the US State Department had released a public warning concerning oil shipments bound for Yemen. The State Department declared, “The United States will not condone any nation or commercial entity providing support to foreign terrorist organizations, such as the Houthis, including the unloading of vessels and provision of oil at ports under Houthi control.”
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Expanded US Operations Under Trump Administration
An analysis by the Associated Press suggests that the renewed US campaign against the Houthis under the Trump administration appears to be broader in scope compared to the previous approach under former President Joe Biden. This shift involves expanding the operational focus from solely targeting missile launch sites to now including strikes against high-ranking Houthi personnel and conducting bombing raids on urban areas.
Escalation Following Houthi Threats
This intensified airstrike campaign commenced after Houthi forces issued threats to recommence targeting ships linked to “Israel” in response to restrictions on aid entering the Gaza Strip. The Houthi definition of what constitutes an “Israeli” vessel remains broadly defined, potentially encompassing a wide range of maritime traffic.
Houthi Maritime Attacks and US Response
From November 2023 to January of the current year, Houthi militants launched missile and drone attacks against over 100 commercial ships, resulting in the sinking of two vessels and the deaths of four sailors. They also initiated unsuccessful attacks targeting US naval warships.
US Campaign Linked to Iran Pressure
The ongoing US military campaign against the Houthis indicates no sign of abatement. The Trump administration has explicitly linked these strikes to a broader strategy of exerting pressure on Iran regarding its rapidly advancing nuclear program.