President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Yemen’s Houthi rebels, stating that U.S. military strikes will continue until they cease attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea. He emphasized that the recent operations are just the beginning, asserting, “The real pain is yet to come.”
The U.S. initiated airstrikes on March 15, targeting Houthi positions in response to threats against international shipping. These strikes have reportedly resulted in significant losses among Houthi fighters and leaders, with their operational capabilities severely diminished.
Despite concerns from some officials about the potential risks and the limited U.S. trade through the Suez Canal, President Trump has defended the military actions as necessary to deter further aggression. He stated that the U.S. will continue its attacks on the Houthi movement until they stop targeting U.S. ships, warning of further consequences for both the Houthis and their Iranian sponsors if the attacks persist.
The intensified U.S. campaign has led to casualties in Yemen, with reports indicating that at least three people were killed and twelve others injured in overnight airstrikes around the rebel-held capital of Sanaa and the Hajjah governorate. The Houthi rebels have condemned these actions, labeling them as violations of Yemen’s sovereignty and pledging a “painful and deterrent” response.
This escalation underscores the complex dynamics in the region, as the U.S. seeks to protect international shipping routes while addressing the broader implications of Iran’s support for the Houthi movement. The situation remains fluid, with potential ramifications for regional stability and global trade.