Washington, DC – In a coordinated effort, the militaries of the United States and the United Kingdom, with the support of Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, executed a new round of precise and necessary strikes against eight Houthi targets in Yemen today. This action comes as a response to the Houthis’ persistent attacks on international and commercial shipping, as well as naval vessels transiting the Red Sea.
The precision strikes, directed by the respective governments of the U.S. and the U.K., aimed to disrupt and degrade Houthi capabilities that pose a threat to global trade and the lives of innocent mariners. The decision to initiate these strikes was driven by a series of illegal, dangerous, and destabilizing actions by the Houthis since the coalition’s earlier strikes on January 11. Among these actions were anti-ship ballistic missile and unmanned aerial system attacks that targeted two U.S.-owned merchant vessels.
The focal point of today’s strike was a Houthi underground storage site, along with locations linked to the group’s missile and air surveillance capabilities. The international coalition emphasized the necessity of addressing the more than thirty attacks carried out by the Houthis on international and commercial vessels since mid-November, characterizing it as a significant international challenge.
The coalition underscores its commitment to upholding the rules-based order, protecting freedom of navigation and international commerce, and holding the Houthis accountable for their illegal and unjustifiable attacks on mariners and commercial shipping. The overarching goal is to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea region.
Despite the coalition’s preference for de-escalation, a stern warning was issued to the Houthi leadership: any continued threats jeopardizing lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world’s most critical waterways will be met with a resolute defense by the coalition forces. The international community stands united in addressing these challenges and preserving the security of vital maritime routes.
