Overview

• The U.S. launched a large-scale airstrike campaign on Houthi targets in Yemen, killing at least 53 people, including women and children, and injuring nearly 100, according to Houthi sources.
• President Donald Trump stated the strikes aim to stop Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which have disrupted global trade and cost billions of dollars.
• The Houthis claimed to have retaliated with missile and drone attacks on the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier group, though U.S. officials reported no significant damage or casualties.
• Iran, a key backer of the Houthis, warned of a decisive response if threatened but emphasized the Houthis' independence in decision-making.
• The U.S. campaign marks a significant escalation, with officials pledging continued strikes until the Houthis halt attacks on maritime routes and U.S. assets.