NEW DELHI: Suspected US airstrikes hit multiple Houthi-controlled areas across Yemen early Friday, including residential neighborhoods in the capital, Sanaa. The extent of destruction and casualties remains unclear, but the intensity of the strikes appeared to surpass previous attacks since the campaign began on March 15.
Reports indicate that the US has expanded its targets beyond Houthi missile launch sites to include high-ranking personnel and urban areas. According to the Houthi-controlled SABA news agency, only one person was injured in Sanaa, where the rebels have held control since 2014. Other strikes targeted the strategic Red Sea port city of Hodeida, the rebel stronghold of Saada, and locations in al-Jawf and Amran governorates.
The Houthis have not disclosed details on the facilities hit, except for Sanaa International Airport, which serves both civilian and military purposes. Airstrikes also struck mountainous regions north of Sanaa, suspected to house military bases and intelligence sites. Houthi-run Al-Masirah satellite news network reported that the attacks disrupted communication networks.
US Remains Silent on Latest Strikes
The US Central Command, which has been authorized to conduct offensive operations in Yemen without prior White House approval, has not officially confirmed the latest strikes. Unlike during President Biden’s administration, CENTCOM has not been providing detailed reports on individual airstrikes in the current campaign.
Since March 15, at least 57 people have been killed in the air offensive, launched in response to Houthi threats to resume attacks on “Israeli” ships after Israel blocked aid to Gaza. The Houthis have previously applied a broad definition of Israeli-linked vessels, raising concerns that other merchant ships could also be targeted.
Between November 2023 and January 2024, the Houthis attacked over 100 merchant ships with missiles and drones, sinking two vessels and killing four sailors. They have also launched strikes on American warships, though none have been hit.
Escalating Tensions Amid Internal Struggles
The recent escalation comes as the Houthis face mounting economic challenges and increased internal repression. Despite Yemen’s prolonged conflict, the group continues to assert its regional influence, intensifying hostilities in a volatile geopolitical landscape.
