US Strikes Target Houthi Weapons in Yemen Using B-2 Bombers
In a significant military operation, the United States executed airstrikes against Iranian-backed Houthi forces in Yemen on the night of October 16, 2024. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed that the strikes targeted five underground weapons storage facilities, utilizing B-2 stealth bombers to deliver precision attacks. This marked the first deployment of the B-2 bombers against the Houthis since the beginning of the US campaign in the region.
The targeted facilities were reportedly used to store advanced conventional weapons that have been employed in attacks against military and civilian vessels operating in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Austin emphasized that this operation showcased the US's capability to strike deeply buried and fortified targets, reinforcing a commitment to countering Houthi aggression in the region. He stated, "We will continue to make clear to the Houthis that there will be consequences for their unlawful and reckless attacks."
Rising Tensions Amid Ongoing Conflicts
The US strikes come at a time of escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly with Israel preparing for potential retaliation against Iranian missile attacks. The Houthis have been increasingly aggressive, launching numerous attacks on commercial shipping and US naval assets in recent months. In September alone, they claimed to have targeted US destroyers with a barrage of ballistic and cruise missiles, although US officials confirmed that none of these missiles successfully hit their targets.
This latest operation by the US military, which involved both the Air Force and Navy, aims to degrade the Houthi's military capabilities and protect international shipping routes. The Houthis have previously linked their attacks to support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, further complicating the regional security landscape. In response to the increasing threat, the US has bolstered its military presence in the region, including the deployment of an advanced anti-missile system to support Israel's defense against potential threats from Iranian proxies.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant repercussions for international shipping, with attacks causing environmental hazards and loss of life. The Pentagon has warned that continued Houthi aggression could lead to further military responses from the US and its allies.
