DUBAI, United Arab Emirates โ In a significant escalation of military activity, U.S. airstrikes on the Yemeni capital of Sanaa have reportedly resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals and injured 30 others, according to Houthi rebel sources. This surge in violence marks the latest chapter in Americaโs ongoing campaign against the rebels. The U.S. militaryโs Central Command has refrained from commenting on the recent strike or the resulting civilian casualties.
The attack was described by the Houthis as having targeted the Farwa neighborhood market within Sanaaโs Shuub district, a location previously hit by U.S. forces. The aftermath was broadcast by the Houthi-controlled al-Masirah satellite news channel, depicting the devastation inflicted upon vehicles and buildings. The distressing scenes included onlookers holding what appeared to be the body of a deceased child, whilst others were seen being stretchered into a hospital.
Beyond Sanaa, the airstrikes extended to other regions across Yemen, including Amran, Hodeida, Marib, and Saada governorates. These actions come in the wake of U.S. strikes on the Ras Isa fuel port last week, which resulted in at least 74 fatalities and left 171 people injured.
This recent wave of airstrikes aligns with the backdrop of renewed negotiations in Rome between the U.S. and Iran, focused on addressing Iranโs advancing nuclear agenda. Washington has suggested a connection between these diplomatic talks and its military actions in Yemen.
The U.S. military operations in Yemen are primarily aimed at the Houthis due to their attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea and incidents involving Israel. The Houthis remain the only militant faction within Iranโs โAxis of Resistanceโ that consistently engages in strikes against Israel.
The ongoing U.S. military campaign, initiated under President Donald Trump, appears to be more expansive compared to the measures taken by the previous administration. This rigorous approach followed threats by the Houthis to target โIsraeliโ vessels anew, as a retaliatory gesture against Israelโs blockade impeding aid to the Gaza Strip.
Since November 2023, the Houthis have targeted over 100 merchant ships using missiles and drones, sinking two vessels and resulting in the deaths of four sailors. This has caused significant disruptions in the Red Sea trade route, which is crucial for the movement of goods valued at approximately $1 trillion. Additionally, the Houthis unsuccessfully attempted to attack U.S. warships.
Due to military discretion and the strict control exerted by the Houthis over affected areas, comprehensive assessments of the casualties and impact of the month-long U.S. airstrike campaign have been challenging. The Houthis seldom release detailed information about the targeted zones, many of which are suspected to include military and security sites.