Trump Administration Defends Airstrikes on Houthis as Internal Divisions Surface

Leaked communications reveal Vice President JD Vance's initial opposition to the strikes, highlighting broader U.S. efforts to counter Iran's influence in the Red Sea.

• U.S. airstrikes on March 15 targeted Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen to restore freedom of navigation in the Red Sea after months of shipping disruptions.
• Vice President JD Vance initially opposed the strikes, citing concerns over economic impacts and alignment with U.S. messaging on Europe, before eventually conceding.
• Leaked group chat messages exposed internal disagreements within the Trump administration, with National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth supporting the strikes.
• The operation reflects a broader U.S. strategy to counter Iran's regional influence and prevent further destabilization in key global trade routes like the Suez Canal.
• The accidental inclusion of a journalist in the administration's group chat has raised concerns over communication security and transparency in decision-making.

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