Operation "Guardian of Prosperity". US and UK attack Houthi targets

Operation "Guardian of Prosperity" is underway. On the night from Thursday to Friday, American and British forces launched attacks on targets associated with the Houthi rebels. "Military forces (...) successfully conducted strikes in Yemen," said Joe Biden.

The U.S. president noted that the United States and Great Britain are conducting a military operation with the support of Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands. He also indicated that this was a response to Houthi attacks. Earlier, rebels attacked ships in the Red Sea.

According to Reuters reports, citing military sources, the strike is being carried out by planes, surface ships, and submarines. Targets, including primarily radar, missile, and drone installations, are being eliminated using fighters and Tomahawk missiles.

Reports of rocket fire are also confirmed by the Houthis. Their representative, Abdul Kader al-Mortada, noted that airstrikes are being carried out on several Yemeni cities, including the capital Sanaa.

First attack on the Houthis

The Houthis are backed by Iran and control most of Yemen. They have been intensively attacking shipping in the Red Sea for several weeks. Operation "Guardian of Prosperity" began in December and initially involved missile protection for civilian ships.

The night attack on Houthi positions is the first coordinated response of the coalition forces of the US, Great Britain, and allies. The Houthis say they want to show support for Hamas fighting against Israel. However, maritime transport in the Red Sea is crucial for trade between Europe and Asia - it accounts for about 15% of world shipping traffic.

On Thursday, the rebels declared that any American attack on their positions would be met with a severe military response.