Brief by Shorts91NewsDesk / 04:37am on 17 Mar 2025,Monday International
The United States has initiated significant airstrikes against Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, resulting in at least 53 fatalities, according to the Houthi-run health ministry. This operation, the largest in the Middle East since President Donald Trump assumed office, aims to halt Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, a vital global trade route. In retaliation, Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi vowed to target U.S. vessels, stating, "If they continue their aggression, we will continue the escalation." Iran, the Houthis' main backer, warned the U.S. of severe consequences if threats persist. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the campaign's goal to restore freedom of navigation, asserting it will persist until Houthi attacks cease.
