US and UK launch fresh strikes against Houthi

The United States and the United Kingdom, along with their allies, launched the eighth round of strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen on Monday, according to a joint statement.

As reported by CNN, the operation, known as "Operation Poseidon Archer," aims to safeguard the Red Sea and international shipping lanes.

This time, the strikes focused on a Houthi underground storage site and locations associated with missile and air surveillance. The officials reported the success of the operation, emphasizing its smaller scale compared to the initial strikes on January 11.

President Joe Biden discussed the situation with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, underlining their commitment to de-escalation. However, a warning was issued to the Houthi leadership, emphasizing the defense of lives and the free flow of commerce in the critical waterway.

The US used fighter jets, surface vessels, and a submarine to target eight locations, employing approximately 25-30 precision guided munitions, including Tomahawk cruise missiles. Notably, this marked the first time the US struck an underground storage facility used by the Houthis, revealing more advanced conventional weaponry.

UK's Secretary of State for Defense, Grant Shapps, highlighted the threat to sailors and the global economy posed by Houthi launches against commercial vessels. Meanwhile, Houthi leader Mohamed Ali al-Houthi responded, stating that the strikes would only strengthen the resolve of the Yemeni people.

The ongoing operations seek to disrupt Houthi capabilities, including one-way attack drones and anti-ship missiles. Despite the strikes, Houthi attacks on US-owned commercial vessels off the Yemeni coast have persisted.

Iran's involvement in fueling Houthi attacks was underscored, with Tehran supplying tactical intelligence and weapons. The US airstrikes, named "Operation Poseidon Archer," indicate a potentially long-term approach to deter Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping.

President Biden acknowledged that the strikes have not halted Houthi activities, but emphasized the continuation of US airstrikes. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh stated that the success of the strikes lies in destroying Houthi targets, limiting their capabilities in the Red Sea.

The Houthis have linked their attacks to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, expressing determination to confront the US directly. As tensions persist, the US Navy intercepted a vessel carrying Iranian-made missile components destined for Houthi-controlled areas.

The Biden administration aims to make it harder for the Houthis to continue their attacks, exploring additional options if necessary. While not seeking conflict, the US remains committed to acting in self-defense and protecting international shipping in the Red Sea.

[With information sourced from CNN]