Tue Mar 18 01:08:26 UTC 2025: ## Trump Escalates Yemen Airstrikes, Blames Iran

**Dubai, UAE –** U.S. President Donald Trump has significantly escalated the conflict in Yemen, launching a new wave of airstrikes targeting Houthi rebels and explicitly blaming Iran for the group’s actions. The strikes, which killed at least 53 people over the weekend, targeted over 40 positions including headquarters and drone sites. Further strikes are planned.

Trump’s administration has granted U.S. Central Command authority to launch offensive strikes against the Houthis without direct White House approval, a departure from the previous administration’s policy. This allows for a faster response to emerging threats, according to U.S. officials.

The President, in a post on Truth Social, accused Iran of supplying the Houthis with weapons, money, and intelligence, claiming Iran is not merely a passive observer but actively directing the group’s actions. He warned Iran would “suffer the consequences” for further Houthi attacks. This statement follows a letter sent to Iran last week attempting to restart nuclear program negotiations.

The Houthis, meanwhile, have vowed revenge against the U.S. and Israel, linking their actions to the ongoing situation in Gaza. Demonstrations erupted in several cities, with Houthi supporters chanting anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans. A Houthi leader defiantly declared their position on the Gaza conflict is irreversible.

The United Nations has called for an immediate halt to all military activities in Yemen and the Red Sea, expressing concern about further escalation. Iran has strongly condemned Trump’s rhetoric, accusing him of making “reckless and provocative statements” and threatening retaliation for any hostile action.

The weekend strikes also saw the Houthis attacking the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier with drones and missiles, though none hit their target. Reports indicate that the Houthis have also raided a World Food Program warehouse in Saada province, seizing supplies intended for vulnerable families. This action comes amidst heightened tensions and the suspension of UN operations in Saada due to security concerns, including the death of a WFP staffer while imprisoned by the Houthis. The conflict continues to exacerbate Yemen’s ongoing humanitarian crisis.

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