Trump Vows Continued Strikes on Houthis Amid Yemen Shipping Threats

President Trump has vowed to continue military strikes against Yemen’s Houthis until they cease threats to maritime navigation. This follows increased Houthi attacks and military operations launched on March 15. Additionally, the administration faces scrutiny over a scandal involving leaked sensitive military discussions.

US President Donald Trump has reiterated his commitment to military action against the Houthis in Yemen, stating strikes will persist until the group ceases its threats against maritime traffic. He emphasized that the Houthis and their Iranian allies face significant consequences if they do not alter their course. Reports indicate that two US strikes targeted the island of Kamaran following Trump’s declarations, contributing to ongoing military operations since March 15, which aim to safeguard vital shipping routes from Houthi aggression.

A surge in Houthi attacks on US military vessels and Israeli interests has been noted, particularly following their involvement in the recent Gaza conflict. Trump’s administration has described these rebels as having been severely diminished by recent strikes, with reports of losses up to 53 identified by Houthi health officials. The attacks have disrupted maritime activities significantly, affecting the flow of traffic through the Suez Canal, a critical global shipping route.

Trump’s comments coincide with an internal scandal regarding a leaked chat among senior security officials discussing military operations in Yemen. This conversation, which included sensitive information about air strike plans, inadvertently involved a journalist. Despite the controversy, Trump declined to dismiss his advisers associated with the leak and attempted to downplay the incident as a political attack. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt underscored that the matter was closed from the viewpoint of the administration.

In conclusion, President Trump’s firm stance against Houthi threats in Yemen is underscored by recent military strikes aimed at ensuring maritime security. The ongoing conflict affects international shipping, notably through the Suez Canal, while internal controversies surrounding leaked communications complicate his administration’s position. Ultimately, Trump’s rhetoric reflects a broader strategy to deter aggression from Houthi rebels and their Iranian supporters.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com