The United States has launched “precision strikes” on five underground weapons storage facilities in Yemen, targeting Houthi-controlled locations used to launch attacks on civilian and military ships. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed that B-2 Spirit stealth bombers were deployed to strike hardened sites housing missiles and munitions, marking a significant step to counter the Houthis’ recent destabilizing actions in the Red Sea.
This operation, directed by President Biden, aims to degrade the Houthis’ capacity to threaten commercial shipping routes vital for international trade. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have escalated their attacks, claiming they support Palestinians in the Gaza conflict, and have frequently targeted vessels they allege are associated with Israel, the US, and the UK. In response to these threats, the US has bolstered its military presence in the region, and Austin emphasized that any “illegal and reckless attacks” by the Houthis would have severe consequences.
Satellite imagery and reports suggest that the targeted locations around the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, and near Saada housed expanded underground facilities, underscoring the Houthis’ intensified military efforts. The US Central Command reported no initial civilian casualties from the strikes, as Western nations work to stabilize one of the world’s most critical shipping corridors.
