As part of an intensification in Middle Eastern hostilities, U.S. military airstrikes have struck at Yemeni capital Sana’a and other strategic locations throughout war-torn Yemen in what Pentagon officials describe as defensive actions. This action comes amid rising tensions around Red Sea region.
Initial reports from local sources indicated that explosions were heard across Sana’a on Monday night, with air raids reported in Saada, Hodeidah and Taiz provinces as well. Eyewitness accounts indicated widespread panic among civilians living near densely-packed neighborhoods of the capital city.
“These strikes are yet another act of aggression against our people,” according to a representative for Yemen’s Houthi movement, which vowed to respond with force. The U.S. continues violating our sovereignty under the pretext of security while innocent civilians suffer as a result.
U.S. Department of Defense officials stated that recent operations aimed to dismantle military infrastructure used to target international shipping routes in Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Officials explained these strikes were necessary in order to safeguard commercial vessels while guaranteeing freedom of navigation in international waters.
“These precision strikes are intended to disrupt hostile capabilities and safeguard U.S. personnel and allies in the region,” according to Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh in an official statement. She reiterated that the U.S. does not seek a wider conflict but will act decisively against threats to its interests.
Resumption of military activity comes at a time of rising regional instability, as tensions mount between U.S.- and Iran-backed factions throughout the Middle East. Analysts warn that further militarization could hamper peace efforts in Yemen where an already fragile truce has already been put through repeated tests since it was announced in 2022.
Humanitarian organizations have expressed grave concern over the effect of air strikes on Yemen’s already dire humanitarian situation, as the country endures almost a decade-long civil war and remains one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises with millions in need of food, shelter and medical aid.
“These latest airstrikes threaten to further exacerbate an already desperate situation,” noted Elena Markos of Global Relief Watch. “Civilians continue to bear the brunt of this conflict.”
As tensions escalate, the international community has called for moderation and diplomatic efforts in order to avoid more bloodshed and regional instability.