The Largest U.S. Military Offensive Under Trump’s Presidency
Washington/Aden, March 16, 2025 – In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a large-scale military offensive against Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The strikes, carried out late Saturday, resulted in the deaths of at least 31 individuals, including civilians, according to Houthi sources. The campaign is expected to last for several days, with U.S. officials warning of continued military action if attacks on Red Sea shipping persist.
Trump’s Dire Warning to Iran: ‘Stop Now or Face Consequences’
In a fiery statement, Trump addressed Iran directly, demanding an immediate halt to its support for the Houthis.
“To all Houthi terrorists, YOUR TIME IS UP. IF YOU CONTINUE ATTACKING, HELL WILL RAIN DOWN UPON YOU!” he posted on his Truth Social platform.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards quickly responded, asserting that the Houthis act independently and warning the U.S. of severe repercussions if aggression continues. “We warn our enemies that Iran will respond decisively and destructively if they carry out their threats,” declared Iranian military chief Hossein Salami.
Targets Hit: Strategic Military and Civilian Areas
U.S. Central Command confirmed that fighter jets from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier, stationed in the Red Sea, executed precise strikes on key Houthi targets, including:
Houthi-controlled military sites in Yemen’s southwestern city of Taiz.
A power station in Dahyan, leading to a massive blackout.
A residential area in Sanaa, causing significant casualties among civilians, including women and children.
Houthi Retaliation and Rising Regional Tensions
The Houthis, a powerful faction that has controlled vast regions of Yemen for nearly a decade, vowed to strike back. “Our Yemeni armed forces are fully prepared to escalate in response to this war crime,” a spokesperson stated.
Since November 2023, the Houthis have launched over 145 attacks on commercial ships and 174 strikes on U.S. warships, according to the Pentagon. These assaults have severely disrupted global trade routes in the Red Sea and triggered an intense U.S. military response.
Global Reactions: Iran, Russia, and the U.N. Speak Out
Iran: Strongly condemned the U.S. strikes, calling them a violation of international law. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi lashed out at Washington, demanding an end to U.S. interference in the region.
Russia: Expressed concerns over escalating hostilities. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly informed Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov of the strikes ahead of time in an attempt to manage tensions.
United Nations: Urged for immediate de-escalation, warning that continued military actions could lead to further humanitarian crises in Yemen, where millions are already suffering from food shortages and displacement.
What’s Next? Will the Conflict Spiral Out of Control?
With Trump’s military strategy taking a more aggressive turn, experts warn that the region is on the brink of a wider conflict. The Houthis have pledged renewed attacks on U.S. and Israeli-affiliated ships, while Iran remains steadfast in its support. Will this be the beginning of an extended U.S. military campaign in Yemen, or can diplomatic intervention prevent further bloodshed?
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Trump’s Yemen Strikes
1. Why did Trump launch military strikes on the Houthis?
Trump ordered the strikes in response to ongoing Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping lanes, which have disrupted global trade and threatened U.S. naval assets.
2. How many people have been killed so far?
At least 31 people have been confirmed dead, with over 100 others injured, including civilians.
3. What is Iran’s role in the conflict?
Iran is a key supporter of the Houthis, providing them with weapons, funding, and military training. However, Iran denies direct involvement in the recent attacks.
4. Will the U.S. continue its military operation?
According to U.S. officials, the strikes may continue for weeks if the Houthis do not cease their attacks on Red Sea vessels.
5. What impact will this have on global shipping?
Shipping routes through the Red Sea are critical for global trade. The ongoing conflict has already led to rising shipping costs and supply chain disruptions.
6. Has Iran threatened retaliation?
Yes, Iran has warned the U.S. of severe consequences if further military action is taken against the Houthis.
7. How has the international community responded?
The United Nations has called for immediate de-escalation, while Russia has expressed concerns over rising tensions.
8. Could this lead to a full-scale war?
If the conflict escalates further, it could lead to broader regional instability, potentially drawing in more nations.
9. What is the Houthis' main objective?
The Houthis claim they are defending Yemen from foreign aggression and supporting Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.
10. Will this affect oil prices?
Yes, the instability in the Red Sea and Gulf regions could drive oil prices higher, affecting global markets.
Final Thoughts: A Crisis Unfolding
The U.S. strikes on Yemen mark a dangerous turning point in the ongoing Middle East conflict. With Iran vowing retaliation and the Houthis promising continued aggression, the situation remains highly volatile. Will diplomacy prevail, or is the region on the verge of another prolonged war? Stay tuned for updates as the crisis unfolds.
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