On Saturday, the White House released images of President Donald Trump orchestrating a large-scale military operation in Yemen's capital, Sana'a. This action was a reaction to Houthi rebel attacks on commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea. The photographs, featuring the slogan "Commander in Chief," depict Trump wearing headphones and overseeing the mission from his Mar-a-Lago golf club in Florida. The president sported a cap emblazoned with his name and the campaign slogan "Make America Great Again."
Additional photos posted by the White House included figures such as Trump's National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. "President Trump is taking decisive action against the Houthis to safeguard American maritime assets and deter terrorist threats. For too long, Houthi attacks have jeopardized U.S. economic and national security interests. Not under this presidency," the White House noted alongside the images.
On the same day, Trump targeted numerous sites in Yemen in retaliation for the terrorist group's assaults on Red Sea shipping routes. "Today, I've ordered the United States Armed Forces to undertake a decisive and powerful military action against the Houthi terrorists in Yemen," Trump announced via a Truth Social post. He accused the Houthis of conducting a relentless campaign of piracy, violence, and terrorism against both U.S. and international vessels, aircraft, and drones. He further warned of unleashing severe consequences if the attacks continued, specifically holding Iran accountable for its support of the rebels. "Your attacks must stop as of today. If not, the consequences will be like nothing you've ever seen," Trump declared.
According to the Associated Press, citing statements from the Houthi-run health ministry spokesperson, at least 13 individuals were killed, and nine others were injured in the strikes. The Houthis vowed retaliation, asserting, "Sana'a will remain the shield and support of Gaza and will not abandon it," referencing the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
This military action took place shortly after the Houthis announced they would resume targeting Israeli vessels in response to the blockade of Gaza. Since 2023, the group has launched missiles and drones at over 100 ships, sinking two and resulting in the deaths of four sailors.
The U.S. military operation was conducted solely by American forces, without involvement from Israel or the United Kingdom, as reported by the Associated Press. The operation included ships from the USS Harry S. Truman fleet, operating in the Red Sea, along with the missile submarine USS Georgia.
Frequently Asked Questions About the U.S. Military Operation in Yemen
What prompted the U.S. military operation in Yemen?
The operation was launched in response to Houthi rebel attacks on commercial and military ships in the Red Sea.
Who participated in the U.S. operation against the Houthis?
The operation was carried out solely by U.S. military forces, without the involvement of Israel or the United Kingdom.
What were the consequences of the military action in Yemen?
According to reports, at least 13 people were killed and nine were injured following the U.S. airstrikes.