U.S. and U.K. Launch Airstrikes in Yemen After Houthi Attacks on Shipping

SANA’A, Yemen (November 10, 2024) – The United States and the United Kingdom carried out airstrikes on Yemeni targets on Sunday, including the capital Sanaa and the Amran region, in response to Houthi rebel attacks on international shipping.

Houthi-controlled media reported that around nine airstrikes hit Sanaa, its suburbs, and Amran. These airstrikes are part of a broader conflict where the Iran-backed Houthis have been targeting ships in the Red Sea since November 2023, in support of Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas war.

The Houthi attacks on international shipping have disrupted global trade, forcing ships to reroute away from the Red Sea and Suez Canal to avoid the conflict. In retaliation, the U.S. and U.K. launched strikes against Houthi positions in Yemen.

The Houthis have also claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks on Israel. On October 3, they said they targeted Tel Aviv with drones, though Israel did not confirm the strike. In response, Israel has carried out airstrikes on Yemeni sites, including the port city of Hodeida.

The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, are supported by Iran and are part of its opposition to both Israel and the U.S. The conflict continues to escalate, adding to the instability in Yemen and the wider region.