- U.S. launches multi-province strikes targeting Houthi military infrastructure
- Rebel forces report dozens of casualties including civilians
- Conflict threatens vital Red Sea trade routes used by 12% of global commerce
- USS Truman strike group deployed with advanced missile systems
The United States intensified its Middle Eastern military engagement Saturday with coordinated attacks across four Yemeni provinces. President Trump confirmed the operation via social media, emphasizing protection of commercial vessels navigating the Bab el-Mandeb choke point where 4.8 million barrels of oil transit daily. Satellite imagery reveals smoke plumes rising from Sanaa's airport complex, housing critical Houthi communication hubs.
Regional analysts highlight three strategic implications: First, the strikes mark Trump's first direct military action against Iranian proxies since restarting nuclear negotiations. Second, Houthi forces retain capacity for asymmetric retaliation through drone swarms targeting Saudi oil facilities. Third, shipping insurance premiums for Red Sea transit have spiked 47% since January according to Lloyd's Market Association data.
A case study from Djibouti's Doraleh Container Terminal illustrates the economic stakes. The port handles 90% of Ethiopia's imports but reported 22-hour delays this week as carriers reroute around Africa. This detour adds 14 days and $1 million in fuel costs per Asia-Europe voyage, potentially triggering consumer price hikes during peak holiday seasons.
Pentagon officials confirm using F/A-18 Super Hornets from the USS Truman alongside Tomahawk missiles in the precision strikes. Military strategists note the simultaneous targeting of Saada's ballistic missile depots and Hodeida's coastal radar stations aims to degrade Houthi early-warning capabilities. However, underground facilities in Marib's mountainous terrain remain operational.
Humanitarian organizations express alarm over strikes hitting Sanaa's Shouab district, where displaced families comprise 60% of residents. UN Yemen envoy Hans Grundberg warns of catastrophic aid disruptions as Houthis control 70% of population centers. The World Food Programme reports 18 million Yemenis now face acute food insecurity amid escalating violence.
