Renewed U.S. Strikes Ignite Protests in Huthi-Controlled Yemen
The Huthis reported new U.S. strikes on Yemen following mass protests against previous bombings. Tens of thousands rallied in Sanaa and other regions, expressing defiance against U.S. actions. The strikes follow a spike in attacks by Huthis on shipping routes during the Gaza conflict. The U.S. warns of continued military intervention until Huthi aggression stops. Concurrently, Iran’s involvement adds complexity to the situation, fueled by military and diplomatic tensions.
Fresh reports from Huthi media indicate renewed U.S. strikes on Yemen on Monday, coinciding with large-scale protests against previous U.S. bombings that targeted the Iran-backed rebel group. Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered in Sanaa, where many carried weapons and chanted anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans, such as “Death to America, death to Israel!” Similar demonstrations were reported in Saada, Dhamar, Hodeida, and Amran, showcasing widespread dissent against U.S. military actions.
These protests occurred after the first U.S. strikes under President Donald Trump, which aimed to curb the Huthis’ harassment of maritime shipping in the Red Sea. The initial strikes resulted in significant casualties, with reports of 53 deaths and 98 injuries. Following these events, Huthi media announced further U.S. strikes in Hodeida and Al-Salif regions.
The Huthis have been actively attacking ships in vital shipping routes during the Gaza conflict, claiming to support the Palestinian cause. On Monday, they asserted that they targeted the USS Harry S. Truman carrier group twice within a 24-hour span, though there has been no response from U.S. officials. Washington reiterated its commitment to intervene militarily until Huthi maritime aggression ceases, with President Trump warning of employing “overwhelming lethal force.”
In Sanaa, which has been under Huthi control since 2014, large crowds rallied at Al-Sabeen Square, displaying Yemeni and Palestinian flags. The recent U.S. strikes represent the first military actions since Trump took office, despite a period of relative calm coinciding with ceasefire efforts in Gaza. Officials warned that further strikes would occur if Huthi attacks persisted, while also indicating a willingness to target Iran, the group’s primary backer.
The United Nations has called for both parties to halt military operations, expressing particular concern over Huthi threats aimed at resuming attacks in the Red Sea. Alongside this, China urged for dialogue and negotiation to reduce tensions in the region. On the eve of increased military action, Huthi threats to escalate their campaign if U.S. aggression continued were also highlighted.
National Security Advisor Michael Waltz noted that Saturday’s strikes were effective against significant Huthi leadership figures. Trump has expanded his warnings to Iran, indicating severe consequences for their support of Huthi activities. Conversely, Iranian officials have criticized the U.S. actions, asserting that Washington lacks authority over Tehran’s foreign policy decisions.
A recent analysis indicates 136 Huthi attacks against various maritime targets since mid-October, leading to costly rerouting for shipping as the Red Sea is crucial for global trade. Historically, U.S. and Israeli military actions in Yemen align with the struggle against Huthi control, which has persisted since 2015, contributing to an ongoing humanitarian crisis amid the civil conflict and stalled peace processes in the region.
The situation in Yemen remains volatile due to renewed U.S. military actions against the Huthi movement, which incited significant public protests in response. The U.S. strikes aim to deter Huthi assaults on maritime routes, yet they have escalated tensions with Iran and further complicated peace negotiations. With ongoing threats from the Huthis and the international community’s calls for dialogue, the path forward for Yemen remains uncertain amidst a humanitarian crisis.
Original Source: homenewshere.com
