U.S. President Donald Trump threatened Yemen’s Houthi rebels with “complete annihilation” on Wednesday as American airstrikes continued to target areas under their control, escalating pressure on the Iran-backed group.
The latest round of strikes hit Sanaa, Yemen’s rebel-held capital, and the Houthi stronghold of Saada in the country’s northwest on Wednesday night, according to the Houthi-run al-Maisrah satellite news channel.
The media outlet broadcast footage showing firefighters battling a blaze in Sanaa and damage at what it described as a sheep farm in al-Jawf. The channel also reported strikes occurred overnight Tuesday, though the U.S. military has not provided a detailed breakdown of targeted locations since the air campaign began.
“Tremendous damage has been inflicted upon the Houthi barbarians,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform as the strikes continued. “Watch how it will get progressively worse — It’s not even a fair fight, and never will be. They will be completely annihilated!”.
The initial wave of strikes this weekend resulted in at least 53 fatalities, including children, and caused additional injuries, according to Houthi sources.
The military campaign represents a significant escalation in U.S. involvement in the region, raising questions about its strategic objectives and potential diplomatic consequences.
Military analysts suggest the strikes aim to degrade Houthi capabilities while demonstrating American resolve to protect maritime security, though humanitarian organisations have expressed concern about civilian casualties and the impact on Yemen’s already fragile infrastructure.
Regional experts note that the intensification of military action occurs against a backdrop of complex regional dynamics, including ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, which provides support to the Houthi rebels.
(information from AP News)
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