U.S. military forces conducted precision airstrikes in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, targeting underground weapons storage facilities. The operation involved U.S. Air Force B-2 bombers and aimed to disrupt the Houthis' capacity to threaten civilian and military vessels in the region.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III stated, "This was a unique demonstration of the United States' ability to target facilities that our adversaries seek to keep out of reach, no matter how deeply buried underground, hardened, or fortified." He highlighted the use of long-range stealth bombers as evidence of U.S. global strike capabilities.
The Houthis have been attacking U.S. and international vessels for over a year, disrupting commerce and posing environmental risks. These actions prompted President Biden's directive for targeted strikes to degrade the Houthis' abilities and protect U.S. interests in critical waterways.
Austin emphasized that the U.S. remains committed to defending American lives and assets while deterring attacks against civilians and regional partners: "We will continue to make clear to the Houthis that there will be consequences for their illegal and reckless attacks."
He also expressed gratitude for the professionalism of American troops involved in these operations.
