Mon Mar 17 17:43:07 UTC 2025: ## US Strikes Yemen, Houthis Respond with Attacks on Aircraft Carrier
**Sanaa, Yemen –** Following U.S. airstrikes on Houthi rebel targets in Yemen that killed 53 people, the Iran-backed rebels launched two separate attacks on a U.S. aircraft carrier group, the USS Harry S. Truman, within 24 hours. The attacks, which involved 18 missiles and a drone, came as the Houthis prepared for massive rallies on Monday, marking the anniversary of the Battle of Badr.
The U.S. strikes, ordered by President Donald Trump, targeted the rebel-held capital Sanaa and other areas, prompting outrage and retaliation. The attacks were a response to repeated Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping, significantly disrupting vital trade routes. The U.S. has vowed to continue strikes until the Houthis cease their attacks.
Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi called for large-scale rallies, anticipating a massive turnout in Sanaa and other governorates. The U.S. National Security Advisor, Michael Waltz, claimed that Saturday’s strikes successfully eliminated multiple Houthi leaders, a claim the Houthis have yet to address.
The situation has drawn international concern. The United Nations urged both sides to halt military actions, while China called for diplomatic solutions. Iran condemned the U.S. strikes, rejecting Washington’s authority to dictate its foreign policy.
The escalating conflict has major implications for global shipping. Houthi attacks on Red Sea traffic have already forced many companies to take costly detours, affecting approximately 12% of global shipping. The ongoing conflict in Yemen, coupled with the recent attacks, further complicates the already volatile geopolitical landscape.
First Piper 