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Biden Affirms Continued Airstrikes on Yemen’s Houthis Amid Escalating Tensions

Summary:

  • President Biden solidifies the US commitment to ongoing airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthis, emphasizing the defensive nature of the actions.
  • Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh underscores the nation’s non-warring stance, while Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi denounces perceived aggression against Yemen.
  • A US-owned tanker faces a potential threat off the Yemeni coast but continues its voyage unharmed


In a clear and decisive statement, President Joe Biden affirms the continuation of airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, addressing reporters in Washington DC before his departure for a speech in North Carolina.

Responding to questions about the effectiveness of the airstrikes, Biden states, “Well, when you say working, are they stopping the Houthis? No. Are they gonna continue? Yes.”

Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh reinforces Biden’s stance during a subsequent briefing with reporters. She emphasizes that the United States does not seek war with the Houthis and underscores that the actions taken are purely defensive in nature. This clarification aims to provide transparency regarding the nation’s strategic approach to the conflict.


Keep Reading:

Abdul Malik al-Houthi, the leader of the Houthi rebels, condemns what he perceives as aggression against Yemen, stating, “The aggression against our dear people is a violation, aggression, a direct encroachment of the sovereignty of Yemen and a direct assault on the Yemeni people.”

This statement offers insight into the Houthi perspective on the ongoing conflict.

Against this backdrop, a US-owned tanker faces a potential threat as it is reportedly encircled by four unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) off the southeast coast of Yemen. However, the ship remains unharmed, continuing its voyage, as reported by security firm Ambrey.

These developments underscore the intricacies and volatility of the conflict, encompassing diplomatic, military, and humanitarian dimensions.

The ongoing strife between the Houthi rebels and the international community, particularly the United States, continues to unfold against a complex geopolitical backdrop.

Inside the Ongoing Airstrikes: Key Points You Need to Know.

1. Why are the airstrikes ongoing in Yemen, and what is their primary objective?

  • The ongoing airstrikes in Yemen primarily aim to address the persistent aggression by Houthi rebels, specifically targeting the Red Sea. The key objective is to defensively counter Houthi attacks and protect merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region.

2. How effective have the airstrikes been in curbing Houthi activities, and what challenges persist?

  • Despite ongoing airstrikes, President Biden acknowledged that they haven’t completely halted Houthi activities. The commitment to continue these defensive measures indicates the strategic decision to counter the persistent threats posed by the Houthi rebels. Challenges include the evolving nature of the conflict and geopolitical complexities.

3. What is the impact of designating the Houthis as a terrorist organization, and how does it shape the conflict dynamics?

  • The US designation of the Houthis as a terrorist organization has diplomatic implications and raises questions about the effectiveness of international efforts to address the conflict. This decision adds a layer of complexity to the conflict, potentially influencing the broader geopolitical landscape.