On March 15, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered American armed forces to commence military operations against the Houthi movement, officially known as Ansar Allah, which has been accused of piracy and terrorism against American and allied ships. According to sources reported by multiple outlets including NTV and The Hill, the operation signifies the largest military campaign initiated by the U.S. since Trump took office.
"Today, I gave the order to the U.S. Armed Forces to begin decisive and powerful military action against the terrorists of the Houthis in Yemen. Our brave fighters are currently conducting air strikes against their bases, leaders, and missile defense systems to protect American vessels and restore freedom of navigation in the Red Sea," Trump announced on his social media platform, Truth Social. He emphasized the need for protective measures against the Houthis who have waged what he deemed as an "ongoing campaign of piracy, violence, and terrorism."
Trump also condemned the actions of former President Joe Biden, arguing they were insufficiently forceful, encouraging the Houthis' continued aggression. He warned, "If you do this, be careful, because America will hold you to full account, and we will not treat this lightly!" This statement signals heightened tensions as the U.S. seeks to restore secure maritime routes disrupted by Houthi activities.
The U.S. air strikes began on the same day Trump made his announcement and included precision attacks on Houthi strongholds throughout Yemen, targeting military bases and radar systems. Reports indicate significant military movement, with the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier launching fighters and drones as part of these operations. The Central Command (CENTCOM) stated these strikes are necessary to protect U.S. interests and restore freedom of navigation.
The Houthis responded swiftly, indicating they are prepared to escalate their actions against U.S. forces. The political bureau of the Houthi movement claimed, "Aggression will not go unanswered. Our Yemeni armed forces are ready to resist escalation with escalation," showcasing their resolve to retaliate against U.S. air strikes.
Health authorities linked to the Houthis claimed heavy civilian casualties resulting from the strikes, reporting at least 20 deaths and 20 injuries, with casualties including women and children, highlighting the devastating impact of military escalation. These figures have drawn critiques from various groups concerned about potential civilian harm amid military operations.
While the U.S. has initiated these air strikes, sources, including news outlets like Axios, suggest this could be just the beginning, with operations expected to extend over several days or even weeks. American military officials have indicated the scale of these operations will depend on Houthi responses, and at least one senior Houthi commander has reportedly been placed on the U.S. military's target list.
The Houthi leadership has vowed to resume their attacks on ships linked to Israel, which they claim to support based on the broader unrest involving Palestine. This direct link between regional tensions and Houthi actions reflects the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with the Houthis accusing the U.S. of attempting to suppress their stance on Palestine, adding another layer to the conflict.
The Yemeni Foreign Ministry issued statements condemning U.S. involvement, asserting it undermines peace initiatives and accusing the U.S. and Britain of aggression aimed at manipulating Yemen's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This narrative shows the Houthis framing their military actions as part of regional solidarity against Israel, asserting their place within the conflict.
Central Command's operations against the Houthis have substantially increased since December 2023, following relentless attacks on ships by the Houthi movement linked to Israel. American military operations, categorized under Operation Prosperity Guardian, aim to secure maritime navigation and deter future Houthi actions.
Air strikes hit several areas, including the capital city of Sanaa, as well as provinces such as Damar, Saada, and Al-Bayda. Locations struck included weapon manufacturing sites and military camps, marking significant targets as the U.S. aims to debilitate Houthi operational capabilities.
Intelligence is key to these operations, with U.S. officials acknowledging previous difficulties in pinpointing Houthi weapons systems, which are often concealed. Continuous discussions among Trump and national security aides indicate shifting strategies as the situation develops, highlighting the urgency assigned to the current military campaign.
The complexity of the situation remains, as the U.S. and regional players navigate the delicate balance between military action and diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring stability. How the Houthis respond to these escalated strikes may significantly alter the regional security architecture, with many observers monitoring the developments closely.
Trump's declaration and subsequent military activities represent both raw power and tactical challenges for the U.S., aiming to juggle immediate security concerns with broader geopolitical ramifications. With tensions quickly rising and no clear de-escalation point announced, the coming days will likely signal pivotal outcomes for the U.S., Houthis, and the larger Middle Eastern geopolitical climate.