US Airstrike Causes High Casualties in Yemen
In a tragic development, Yemen’s Houthi rebels reported on Sunday that a recent airstrike conducted by the United States in Sanaa province has resulted in significant casualties. The Iran-backed group stated that the attack on the Al-Sawari factory in the Matna area of Bani Matar has led to the deaths of five individuals, with the overall toll reaching 18, including 13 injured.
The conflict, which has escalated in recent months, saw Houthi media claiming that US airstrikes targeted several locations across Yemen, including the provinces of Saada and Hodeida. A striking image from the Houthi Ansarullah Media Center showed a massive column of fire following the attacks in the rebel-held port city of Hodeidah.
Continued US Airstrikes Target Houthi Positions
Since the commencement of the US air campaign against the Houthis on March 15, 2024, these rebel-held areas have been subjected to almost daily bombardments. The US military operation aims to pressure the Houthis to cease their threats against vessels navigating crucial maritime routes.
In retaliation, the Houthis have conducted their own operations against US military ships and territories in Israel, asserting that their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. This exchange of hostilities began intensifying following the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023.
Impact of Conflict on Maritime Traffic
The unrest has had serious repercussions for maritime traffic in the region. Houthi forces have targeted ships traversing the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden and have even threatened Israeli territories. Following a temporary ceasefire in January, these strikes were paused; however, they resumed when hostilities reignited in the wake of Israel’s blockade of Gaza.
As a result of these ongoing strikes, significant disruptions have occurred along the critical shipping lane of the Red Sea, which normally accommodates approximately 12 percent of global shipping traffic. Many shipping companies have been forced to reroute, opting for much longer paths around the southern tip of Africa to avoid the dangers presented by Houthi attacks.
Israeli Operations Resume Amid Rising Tensions
The situation has intensified further with Israel resuming its military operations in Palestinian territories. Following a halt in supplies to Gaza at the beginning of March and subsequent escalations on March 18, hostilities have reignited, marking an end to the brief truce that had been established.
The renewed US military campaign came as a direct response to the Houthis’ threats to escalate their attacks on maritime vessels, particularly in light of Israel’s actions against Gaza. This growing cycle of revenge strikes continues to complicate an already volatile regional landscape.
