Huthi media outlets reported new U.S. airstrikes on Monday targeting areas in Hodeida, a rebel-held region on Yemen’s western coast. According to the Iran-aligned Huthis’ Saba news agency, one strike hit the Bajel area in Hodeida governorate, while others targeted a steel factory in the Al-Salif district. The rebels’ Al-Masirah channel also confirmed the attacks.
The strikes occurred as the Huthis claimed to have launched two attacks on a U.S. aircraft carrier group within 24 hours. This escalation came ahead of large-scale rallies organized by the rebels following U.S. airstrikes that reportedly killed dozens. The Huthis have been targeting ships in the Red Sea, actions they say are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, where Israel is conducting a military campaign with U.S. backing.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning, holding Iran directly accountable for any future attacks by the Huthis. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated, “Every shot fired by the Houthis will be considered as coming from Iran’s weapons and leadership. Iran will be held responsible and face the consequences.” He also emphasized that any further Huthi attacks would be met with significant force, accusing Iran of playing the “innocent victim” in the conflict.
The U.S. has been conducting strikes against Huthi targets for months in response to their repeated attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea, which have disrupted a critical global trade route. The Huthis’ actions have intensified since the Gaza conflict began, with the group claiming their attacks are in support of Palestinians.
Over the weekend, U.S. airstrikes in Yemen reportedly killed 53 people and injured 98, marking the first such strikes under Trump’s new term. In retaliation, the Huthis claimed to have targeted a U.S. aircraft carrier and mobilized thousands of supporters in protests across areas under their control.
The Huthis had largely refrained from attacking Red Sea and Gulf of Aden shipping lanes since January 19, when a ceasefire in Gaza took effect. However, the recent U.S. strikes on Sanaa and other rebel-held areas have reignited tensions. The U.S. actions were a direct response to the Huthis’ ongoing threats to maritime security, which have significantly strained one of the world’s most vital trade routes.
The situation underscores the complex dynamics of the conflict, with the Huthis leveraging regional tensions to justify their actions, while the U.S. and its allies seek to curb their influence and protect international shipping interests.
