Mon Mar 17 08:40:00 UTC 2025: ## US Strikes in Yemen Spark New Crisis in Red Sea

**Sana’a, Yemen/Washington D.C. –** A dangerous escalation in the conflict in Yemen has ignited a new crisis near the strategically vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait. US airstrikes on Saturday and Sunday night, reportedly targeting Houthi leaders, killed at least 53 people and injured nearly 100 more, according to Yemeni sources and media. The attacks, which hit Sana’a, Saada, and Hodeidah, prompted retaliatory actions by the Houthis, who claimed to have attacked a US warship.

The US maintains the strikes were aimed at Houthi leadership and were a response to Houthi attacks on US troops and allies, with President Donald Trump further alleging Iranian backing for the Houthi actions. However, critics, including independent Yemen analyst Nick Brumfield, allege that the US strikes disregarded civilian casualties, hitting residential areas. The US has vowed to continue bombing Yemen until the Houthis cease hostilities.

The conflict’s root appears linked to the ongoing Israeli-Gaza conflict. Following Israel’s blockade of Gaza and the subsequent Houthi deadline for the reopening of aid crossings, the Houthis resumed attacks on ships linked to Israel in the Red Sea. These attacks, which began in November 2023 and were paused during a January ceasefire, have disrupted global shipping, forcing vessels to take longer, more expensive routes around Africa and impacting global inflation.

The US re-designation of the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) on March 4th is seen by some as a significant factor escalating the situation. Despite the significant increase in casualties this time, the Houthis show little sign of backing down, with spokespeople vowing further escalation unless the siege on Gaza is lifted. Iran, meanwhile, has denied any involvement and criticized the US actions.

The escalating violence threatens to destabilize a region crucial for global shipping, with the Bab el-Mandeb Strait accounting for approximately 15% of global maritime trade. The situation remains highly volatile, raising concerns of a wider regional conflict. The US has yet to officially comment on the Houthi claims of attacks on its warships.

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