US and UK carry out fresh strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen

The US and the UK have launched new strikes on Houthi positions in Yemen, marking the fourth joint operation between the two countries.

The targets included weapons storage sites, drones, defense systems, radars, and a helicopter associated with the Iran-supported Houthi rebels.

These latest strikes, conducted by US and UK fighter jets, aimed at weakening the Houthi rebels' capacity to disrupt international trade and security, especially in the heavily trafficked Red Sea.

The Houthis have escalated attacks on ships in the region, allegedly targeting connections to Israel and the West, amidst the Israel-Gaza conflict.

This militant activity has led to significant disruptions in global supply chains, with major shipping companies now rerouting to avoid the Red Sea. The Pentagon emphasizes that these precise strikes are vital for maintaining the safe passage of vessels in key maritime routes.

The international effort involved support from several other nations, including Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin affirmed America's commitment to protecting commerce and navigation in critical waters, while his UK counterpart, Grant Shapps, similarly stated the UK's intent to ensure maritime security and freedom.

The actions follow a recent incident where a British-registered cargo ship had to be evacuated off Yemen's coast after a Houthi missile attack.