The U.S. military announced Wednesday that it had conducted precision strikes against two Houthi underground weapons storage facilities in Yemen. These facilities were reportedly used to target naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the strikes targeted Iranian-backed Houthi Advanced Conventional Weapon (ACW) storage sites within Houthi-controlled areas. The command confirmed no U.S. personnel were injured and no U.S. equipment was damaged.
CENTCOM explained that the strikes aimed to weaken the Iranian-backed Houthis’ ability to threaten regional partners and vessels. While the exact locations of the strikes in Yemen remain unconfirmed, Al-Masirah TV, a Houthi-affiliated news outlet, reported five raids in Amran province and near Sanaa.
The Houthis have operated from Sanaa and coastal regions since seizing control from the internationally recognized government. This latest strike is part of an apparent escalation by the Biden administration, following at least three strikes last month targeting Houthi command centers, weapons production, and storage facilities.
In December alone, the U.S. thwarted at least two Houthi attacks against naval and commercial ships. Houthi attacks have intensified recently, notably after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel.
While rocket fire from Gaza and Lebanon has decreased significantly following a ceasefire with Hezbollah, Houthi activity persists. Reports indicate continued Houthi missile launches from over 1,200 miles away targeting Israel, threatening both Israelis and regional transport.
Israel has warned of forceful responses if the attacks continue, echoing previous actions against other Iranian-backed groups. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated in late December that Israel would target Houthi leaders.