The United States and Britain launched a series of air strikes on military facilities belonging to the “Ansar Allah” movement (Houthis) in the Yemeni capital, Sana’a.
Al-Masirah TV, run by the Houthis in Yemen, reported on Sunday that the United States and Britain launched raids on the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, Amran Governorate, and other areas.
Houthi media and residents said that about 9 raids targeted Sanaa, its suburbs, and Amran Governorate.
In turn, Agence France-Presse quoted the US Department of Defense (the Pentagon) as saying that US fighters launched several air strikes on Sunday night on what it said were advanced weapons storage facilities belonging to the Houthis.
A US defense official said the weapons were being used to attack military and civilian ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
On Friday, the Houthis announced the downing of an American MQ-9 drone with a missile, while it was carrying out actions they described as hostile in Al-Jawf Governorate, northeast of the capital, Sanaa, on Friday.
A source told TASS: “The American and British air forces carried out 3 strikes on Sana’a on Saturday evening.”
He added: “The American and British air forces targeted military bases and weapons depots in several areas of the city.”
The raid came a day after the Houthis announced for the first time the launch of the “Palestine 2” hypersonic missile at an Israeli military base in the Negev Desert.
The Houthi armed forces said in a statement: “They carried out a qualitative military operation targeting the Nevatim air base in the Negev region in southern occupied Palestine with a hypersonic ballistic missile “Palestine 2” and achieved its goal.”
Since last November, the Houthi “Ansar Allah” movement has launched naval attacks that it says target ships linked to Israel, the United States, and Britain, in support of the Palestinian factions in confronting the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip.
On the other hand, the British Maritime Trade Operations Authority said in a statement that a commercial ship sailing near Yemen received an order to change its course about 57 nautical miles southwest of Aden by a party that described itself as the Yemeni authorities.
Last updated: November 10, 2024 – 11:10
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Middle East Defense Expert
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon and thank you for joining us today. With the recent airstrikes carried out by the United States and Britain against Houthi positions in Yemen, what can you tell us about the implications of these actions?
Middle East Defense Expert: Good afternoon! Thank you for having me. The airstrikes, especially when led by prominent military powers like the US and Britain, signal a significant escalation in their involvement in the Yemeni conflict. These strikes targeted what were described as advanced weapons storage facilities belonging to the Houthis, which indicates that the US and its allies are responding to specific threats, particularly the attacks on military and civilian ships in critical maritime areas such as the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Time.news Editor: Right, that’s a pivotal point. The Houthis have been increasingly active in these waters. To what extent do you think the downing of the American MQ-9 drone contributed to the decision for these airstrikes?
Middle East Defense Expert: That drone incident certainly adds a layer of complexity to the situation. The Houthis claimed to have downed the drone while it was carrying out what they termed “hostile actions.” This act not only demonstrates their growing capabilities but also highlights the high-stakes environment in which these military operations are taking place. The US response, in the form of airstrikes, can be interpreted as a message to deter further Houthi aggressions, both against US assets and broader shipping routes critical for international trade.
Time.news Editor: We’ve seen various international responses to the conflict in Yemen over the years. With the ongoing strikes, do you think we are witnessing a shift in strategy from the US and its allies in terms of their engagement with the Houthis?
Middle East Defense Expert: Absolutely. Historically, US involvement has been more indirect, often supporting regional partners in their efforts against the Houthis. However, with these airstrikes, it seems we are moving towards a more direct military engagement. This could also reflect a broader strategy to contain Iranian influence, as the Houthis are largely seen as an Iranian proxy. The airstrikes can serve as a deterrent, but they also risk further entrenching the conflict, as the Houthis may retaliate or escalate their operations in response.
Time.news Editor: Given the volatile dynamics in the region, how do you foresee the potential reactions from other players involved, particularly Iran and Saudi Arabia?
Middle East Defense Expert: Reactions will likely vary. Iran may escalate its support for the Houthis, potentially providing them with more advanced weapons or training in response to perceived threats from the US and its allies. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, might view this as an opportunity to bolster its own military strategy against the Houthis, especially as they have been engaged in a long-standing conflict with them. The regional landscape is already complicated, and further military escalations could lead to broader regional confrontations.
Time.news Editor: It’s clear that this situation is multidimensional and evolving rapidly. As we wrap up, what do you think the chances are for a diplomatic resolution, especially considering the current military actions?
Middle East Defense Expert: The likelihood of a quick diplomatic resolution appears slim at this moment. Military actions, like the airstrikes we’re witnessing, often lead to a cycle of retaliation that can derail peace efforts. However, a diplomatic channel is crucial for sustainable peace. It requires engagement from all parties, including regional powers and international stakeholders, to eventually address both the humanitarian crisis in Yemen and the underlying geopolitical tensions driving the conflict.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights today! This is a complex situation that will require continued attention, and we appreciate your expertise in shedding light on these developments.
Middle East Defense Expert: Thank you for having me. I hope we can continue to raise awareness about this critical issue.