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In a coordinated effort, US and British forces have launched strikes against a series of Houthi targets in Yemen, marking the latest response to the group’s ongoing assaults on regional shipping.

This military action targeted 18 Houthi locations, including underground facilities and defense systems, as part of efforts to curb the Iran-affiliated group’s capabilities. The Houthis, who hold power over Yemen’s most densely populated areas, have justified their maritime attacks as acts of solidarity with Palestinians amid the war in Gaza, significantly impacting global trade and shipping operations.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that these strikes aimed “to further disrupt and degrade the capabilities of the Iranian-backed Houthi militia.” He added, “We will continue to make clear to the Houthis that they will bear the consequences if they do not stop their illegal attacks, which harm Middle Eastern economies, cause environmental damage and disrupt the delivery of humanitarian aid to Yemen and other countries.”

These actions come in the wake of the Houthis’ escalated attacks, including a recent assault on a UK-owned cargo ship. According to Western officials, the ongoing Houthi campaign not only threatens the strategic Suez Canal but is impacting global maritime traffic.