NEW DELHI: Suspected US airstrikes struck multiple Houthi-controlled locations across Yemen early Friday, including residential areas in the capital, Sanaa.
The scale of destruction and casualties remains unclear, though the intensity of the strikes appeared greater than previous days since the campaign began on March 15.
The US has reportedly expanded its targets from Houthi missile launch sites to high-ranking personnel and urban areas.
Houthi-controlled SABA news agency reported only one injury in Sanaa, where the rebels have maintained control since 2014. Airstrikes also hit key areas such as the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, the rebel stronghold of Saada, and parts of Yemen’s al-Jawf and Amran governorates.
The extent of the damage remains unknown, and the Houthis have not disclosed what facilities were targeted, except for Sanaa International Airport, which serves both civilian and military purposes.
Strikes also hit mountainous regions north of Sanaa, where military bases and intelligence sites are suspected to be located. Houthi-run al-Masirah satellite news network reported that communication networks were disrupted following the attacks.
The US Central Command, which has been granted authority to carry out offensive operations in Yemen without prior White House approval, has not officially acknowledged conducting the latest strikes. Unlike during Biden’s administration, the command has not been providing details on individual airstrikes in the current campaign.
The air campaign, which has killed at least 57 people since March 15, was launched after the Houthis threatened to resume attacks on “Israeli” ships in response to Israel blocking aid to Gaza. In the past, the rebels have used a broad definition of Israeli-linked vessels, raising concerns that other merchant ships could be at risk.
Between November 2023 and January this year, the Houthis targeted over 100 merchant ships using missiles and drones, sinking two vessels and killing four sailors. They have also launched strikes at American warships, though none have been hit.
The recent escalation comes as the Houthis, facing economic turmoil and increasing internal repression, seek to bolster their regional influence amid Yemen’s prolonged conflict.
About The Author
