The Washington Times reports that throughout the night and into Monday morning, several areas surrounding the rebel-held capital of Yemen were targeted by what are believed to have been U.S. airstrikes. The Houthi rebels, who are backed by Iran, have claimed responsibility for the assaults, stating that at least three people were killed and twelve others wounded.
While the precise amount of damage is still unknown, the strikes did target Sanaa and other areas in Hajjah governorate, the Yemeni capital that has been under Houthi control since 2014. This latest bombardment is one of the most heavy assaults in a campaign that started on March 15, and it follows a wave of strong airstrikes early Friday. Houthi military spokeswoman: "The American aggression continues to claim innocent lives and destroy our infrastructure."
Al-Masirah TV channel, Houthi official. The United States has been mum in response to the most recent strikes. Multiple airstrikes have been carried out by Washington in response to the Houthis' attacks on Red Sea shipping lines since the beginning of their military campaign. The Houthis, who govern a large portion of northern Yemen, have frequently attacked civilian and military ships, claiming they are retaliating against Israeli and American actions in the area.
Residents heard deafening explosions that shook sections of Sanaa during the night, and smoke billowed from a number of sites as a result of the strikes. No one knows how many people were killed or injured, but witnesses said they saw rescue workers racing to the affected neighborhoods. The United States, Iran, and regional proxy forces are all embroiled in a rising battle in the Middle East, which is contributing to the escalation in Yemen.
The Houthis maintain that the US strikes constitute aggression against Yemen, despite Washington's claims that they are meant to eliminate dangers to international shipping. Yemen has been through years of civil strife and humanitarian catastrophes; the continuing air campaign adds to their woes. Given the lack of progress in diplomatic efforts, the situation is extremely unpredictable and might potentially involve more regional and international players.
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