U.S.-Led Coalition Strikes Houthi Targets in Yemen

The United States, together with its allies, has initiated joint military strikes against Houthi- controlled areas in Yemen. This operation, named "Operation Prosperity Guardian," aims to diminish the Houthis' capabilities to launch attacks on international shipping lanes. The operation involves a comprehensive approach to countering the Houthis, signaling an extended commitment.

The Houthis have threatened to target American and British interests in the region. A Houthi leader even claimed their missiles could reach the White House. In response, the U.S. Central Command, the UK Armed Forces, and allies from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands conducted strikes on January 22 at around 11:59 p.m. local time in Yemen. The operation targeted eight locations in Houthi-held areas, including missile systems, air defense units, radars, and weapon storage sites.

These multilateral strikes were aimed at Houthi positions used for launching attacks against international merchant ships and U.S. Navy vessels. The targets were in strategic maritime zones like the Red Sea, Bab Al-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden. The goal is to prevent further unlawful Houthi assaults on shipping in these critical areas. These military actions are separate from other freedom of navigation operations under Operation Prosperity Guardian. Amid these developments, the Houthis, backed by Iran, show no signs of reducing their activities. Recent images have surfaced of an Iranian-Houthi Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile, likely the 'Asef' (Fateh-313), in use.