Tue Apr 01 08:24:29 UTC 2025: ## US Launches Fresh Airstrikes in Yemen as Houthis Claim Drone Downed
**Sanaa, Yemen –** The United States military conducted a series of air strikes on Houthi rebel targets in Yemen overnight, escalating an ongoing campaign that began in mid-March. The strikes, which targeted areas near the capital Sanaa and the northern province of Saada, follow a claim by the Houthi rebels that they shot down a US MQ-9 drone over Marib province.
US Central Command released videos showing jets taking off and missiles launching from a carrier, but has not yet commented on the Houthi’s claim. The Houthis, through their military spokesman Yahya Saree, stated they used a locally-manufactured missile to down the drone. The Houthis’ Al Masirah TV reported at least 15 raids in Saada province alone. While there were no immediate reports of casualties from the latest strikes, the Houthis claim at least 61 people have been killed in the US bombing campaign since March 15th.
Despite the ongoing attacks, President Donald Trump declared the Houthi rebels “decimated” by the US air campaign, asserting on Truth Social that their capabilities are being rapidly destroyed. He vowed to continue the attacks until the group no longer threatens freedom of navigation. The Houthis have recently targeted over 100 merchant vessels, sinking two and killing four sailors between November 2023 and January 2024. They also launched attacks targeting US warships, although none have been hit.
The US campaign, which began after Houthi threats to resume attacks on regional shipping, continues amid accusations that Iran supplies the rebels with weapons. While Iran denies arming the Houthis, the US and Israel maintain that Tehran provides weaponry used to target shipping and has been found on Yemeni battlefields. The situation remains tense, with the ongoing air strikes and conflicting claims highlighting the volatile nature of the conflict.
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