US and UK Launch Strikes on Houthi Militant Targets in Yemen
The United States and Britain have launched strikes on approximately a dozen Houthi militant targets in Yemen. The strikes were a defensive response to the Houthi attacks on international cargo ships and US warships in the Red Sea. President Biden emphasized that these targeted strikes send a clear message that attacks on personnel and freedom of navigation will not be tolerated. The strikes were carried out using surface ships, submarines, warplanes, and attack aircraft. The targets included radar sites, drone launchers, and storage sites to degrade the Houthi’s ability to attack shipping.
Background and Recent Attacks
The Houthis, backed by Iran, have been targeting international cargo ships in the Red Sea for the past two months. They have mounted more than two dozen drone and missile attacks, damaging some ships. However, US warships have successfully shot down many of the missiles and drones. On January 9th, the Houthis launched their largest attack yet, firing drones and missiles towards international shipping lanes. The US and UK responded by shooting down eighteen drones and missiles. In a separate incident, US helicopters sank three Houthi boats that attempted to attack a container ship.
Republican Calls for Retaliation
Some Republicans have been pushing for retaliation against the Houthis. They argue that the Biden administration needs to take a tougher stance against the militants. One former US regional commander, retired Marine Gen. Frank McKenzie, wrote in a Wall Street Journal opinion piece that it was time to act against the Houthis and send a message to Iran.
The Future and Potential Escalation
Behnam Ben Taleblu, an expert on Iranian security and political issues, wonders whether the US strikes were designed to send a message or lead to a broader assault. The Houthis have a sophisticated arsenal of weapons provided by Iran, including medium-range ballistic missiles and drones. If the US wants to neutralize the group, it would have to mount a sustained campaign against their military sites.
Impact on Shipping and Regional Conflict
The recent Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have led to the creation of a naval coalition, called Prosperity Guardian, to provide security for shipping companies. However, some companies are still diverting their vessels around the Cape of Good Hope to avoid the dangers of the Red Sea. The US argues that the Houthi attacks are an assault on international shipping in a crucial trade route. The Houthis claim that their attacks are in solidarity with Hamas militants who attacked Israel.
Expanding Middle East Conflict
The conflict in the Middle East has been expanding, with Iranian-backed militias attacking US forces in Syria and Iraq. Israel has also engaged in conflicts with Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza. The US killing of a senior Iranian-affiliated militia leader in Baghdad has raised questions about its ongoing presence in the region. With the latest US attack on Yemen, there are concerns about potential increased attacks on shipping or US troops by Iranian proxies. Yemen may also open another front against Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
The strikes on Houthi militant targets in Yemen were a defensive response to their attacks on international cargo ships and US warships. The US and UK targeted radar sites, drone launchers, and storage sites to degrade the Houthi’s ability to attack shipping. The future remains uncertain, with questions about potential escalation and the involvement of Iran and other regional actors.