Trump Oversees Airstrikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen
President Donald Trump directed U.S. military operations against Houthi positions in Yemen, emphasizing a strong stance against terrorism and protection of American interests.
On Saturday, under President Donald Trump’s command, U.S. Central Command executed precision airstrikes targeting Iranian-backed Houthi outposts in Yemen. The White House shared images of Trump, dressed in golf attire and sporting his signature red baseball cap, observing the operation unfold on a television screen. Alongside Trump were Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, underscoring the administration’s unified front against the Houthi threat.
Trump took to TRUTHSocial to announce the military action, stating he had ordered ‘decisive and powerful’ strikes to protect American shipping, air, and naval assets, and to restore navigational freedom. He asserted that no terrorist force would impede the free movement of American commercial and naval vessels.
The operation, conducted solely by the U.S., marks the first military action against the Houthis under Trump’s second term. The decision follows the re-designation of the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization by the Trump administration, reversing a previous move by the Biden administration.
The strikes have reportedly resulted in at least 31 casualties, according to the Houthi-run Health Ministry in Yemen. The Houthis have been accused of attacking international shipping in the Red Sea and launching missiles and drones at Israel, actions they claim are in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Iran, accused of supporting the Houthis, has denied involvement in their attacks. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for the U.S. to halt the strikes, asserting that Washington cannot dictate Iran’s foreign policy. However, Trump warned Iran to end its support for the Houthis immediately, threatening severe consequences if they continued to threaten American interests or global shipping lanes.
This military action comes as part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to assert U.S. dominance and protect its interests against what it perceives as terrorist threats. The operation not only aims to deter the Houthis but also sends a strong message to Iran and other potential adversaries.