DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Suspected U.S. airstrikes in Yemen’s Houthi rebel stronghold resulted in at least two fatalities, as reported by the group on Sunday. The strikes in Saada killed two individuals and injured nine others, according to the Houthis’ al-Masirah satellite news channel. The Houthis shared footage of a strike collapsing a building, which they claimed was a solar power shop. Despite acknowledging 69 casualties from the airstrikes, the Houthis have not confirmed any losses among their security and military leadership. However, a video posted by U.S. President Donald Trump suggested otherwise.
In the drone footage shared by Trump, a group of individuals gathered, followed by an explosion leading to a massive crater. Trump claimed that the Houthis were planning an attack, but the strike prevented it. The U.S. military’s Central Command has not provided details about the March 15 airstrikes targeting the Houthis. The White House stated that over 200 strikes have been conducted thus far. The rebel-controlled SABA news agency in Yemen described the recent bombing as targeting a social gathering during Eid al-Fitr in the Hodeida governorate.
While the SABA report mentioned casualties, it did not specify whether those killed were civilians or had ties to the rebels’ security or military forces. Yemen expert Mohammed al-Basha noted that the strikes have intensified, targeting various governorates, telecommunication infrastructure, command nodes, and senior Houthi officials’ properties. The airstrikes are now aimed at Houthi force gatherings, indicating a more aggressive approach by the U.S.
Under Trump, the U.S. operation against the Houthis has expanded compared to the previous administration. The airstrikes began after the rebels threatened to target “Israeli” ships in response to Israel blocking aid to Gaza. The Houthis had previously attacked merchant vessels and American warships without success. These actions have garnered international attention and escalated the conflict in Yemen, already ravaged by a prolonged war.
The relentless airstrikes by the Trump administration are seen as a strategy to pressure Iran over its nuclear program. The bombings show no signs of cessation, showcasing a shift towards targeting high-ranking Houthi personnel and urban areas. As the conflict escalates, the impact on civilians in Yemen and the broader Middle East remains a grave concern.