US Strikes Yemen: Hundreds Killed, Attacks Reduced

The United States military has conducted over 800 strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen since March 15th, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of fighters, including members of the group’s leadership, according to a recent statement from US Central Command (CENTCOM). Dubbed “Operation Rough Rider,” the sustained aerial campaign aims to curtail Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and reassert American influence in the region.

CENTCOM reports significant damage to Houthi infrastructure, including command-and-control facilities, air defense systems, and weapons manufacturing and storage sites. While acknowledging continued Houthi attacks, the military claims a substantial reduction in the frequency and effectiveness of those attacks – a 69% decrease in ballistic missile launches and a 55% decrease in drone attacks.

However, the effectiveness of these strikes is questionable given the continued Houthi activity and reported civilian casualties. Al-Masirah TV, a Houthi-controlled media outlet, reported recent strikes on Sanaa killed at least eight people and wounded others, showcasing images of destroyed homes and bodies. An AFP tally, based on Houthi announcements, places the total death toll since March 15th at 228. This raises serious concerns about the proportionality of the US response and the potential for exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in Yemen, a country ravaged by years of conflict.

The US military attributes the Houthi’s continued aggression to support from Iran, asserting that the group could not sustain its attacks without external backing. This highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play and the risk of escalating regional tensions. The stated objective remains the restoration of freedom of navigation and American deterrence, but achieving this through military force alone appears increasingly difficult.

The Biden administration initiated strikes against the Houthi rebels, and former President Trump has vowed continued military action until the threat to shipping is neutralized. However, the campaign has been marred by political controversy. Reports surfaced last month detailing the use of the Signal messaging app by senior officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, to discuss strike details, with sensitive information inadvertently shared in non-secure groups.

The Houthi attacks, which began in late 2023, are presented as a demonstration of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. These attacks have disrupted global shipping, forcing vessels to take costly detours around the Cape of Good Hope, impacting approximately 12% of world shipping traffic. While the US frames its intervention as necessary to protect international commerce, the situation demands a more comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying political and humanitarian issues driving the conflict. Simply escalating military pressure risks further destabilizing the region and inflicting more suffering on the Yemeni people. A sustainable solution requires diplomatic engagement, addressing the root causes of the conflict, and prioritizing humanitarian aid.