US, UK launch airstrikes on rebel-held Yemen

US and British forces conducted airstrikes in Yemen, targeting Huthi rebels who have been disrupting Red Sea shipping in solidarity with Gaza.

The strikes fuel fears of broader regional conflict as violence involving Tehran-aligned groups intensifies across Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria since the Israel-Hamas war began.

Hamas expressed concern, holding the US and Britain accountable for potential repercussions on regional security.

The coalition, comprising the US, Britain, and eight other allies, defended the strikes as an effort to “de-escalate tensions.” However, Iran and several other countries in the region condemned the Western action, raising concerns about worsening unrest.

Following the news of the airstrikes, oil prices surged by four percent. Market analysts attributed this rise to concerns that the region might be on an unpredictable escalating path, with potential consequences for global trade and security.

The Huthis’ attacks on Israeli-linked shipping in the Red Sea since October have significantly disrupted global maritime trade. The Bab al-Mandeb strait, a key international trade route, has seen a 70 percent drop in shipping containers since mid-November, affecting approximately 12 percent of global maritime trade.

The strikes targeted an airbase, airports, and a military camp, according to Huthi-controlled Al-Masirah TV. The British Ministry of Defence reported that four RAF Typhoons hit sites in northwestern Yemen used for launching attack drones and operating cruise missiles and drones over the Red Sea. Huthi military spokesman Yahya Saree stated that at least five people were killed.

International reactions varied, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan describing the strikes as “disproportionate,” and Iran’s foreign ministry asserting that the Western strikes would only fuel insecurity and instability in the region. China expressed concern about the escalation of tensions, while Moscow condemned the “illegitimate” strikes.

US President Joe Biden labeled the strikes as a “defensive action” in response to Huthi attacks in the Red Sea.

He emphasized the rebels’ use of anti-ship ballistic missiles as unprecedented. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that the Huthis’ actions breached international law and warranted a strong response.