On March 28, 2025, President Donald J. Trump addressed letters to both the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, and the President pro tempore of the Senate, Charles Grassley. The letters highlighted significant developments in Yemen and the broader Middle East region related to actions against Houthi militants.
In the correspondence, the President described measures taken by the United States in response to persistent threats and actions by Houthi militants based in Yemen. These actions include acts of aggression against shipping lanes and attacks on U.S. forces. President Trump made clear that these developments could not continue to threaten U.S. security or commercial interests. He noted, "I will no longer allow this band of pirates to threaten and attack United States forces and commercial vessels in one of the most important shipping lanes in the world."
The President disclosed specific military actions underway, under the direction of the Department of Defense. These actions involved deploying additional U.S. forces to the Middle East to bolster defenses and conduct necessary military operations. President Trump indicated that these forces would include air and missile defense systems for Israel and areas hosting U.S. forces, alongside fighter and reconnaissance aircraft. The President confirmed that "the additional forces have deployed to countries in the Middle East region as detailed in the attached classified annex."
Moreover, under the directive of President Trump, U.S. Central Command has initiated large-scale military strikes in Yemen, targeting areas controlled by the Houthis. These operations aim to dismantle the Houthi capabilities threatening U.S. forces and commercial ships in the region. The military actions involve the U.S. Navy and Air Force using a variety of resources, including bombers, fighters, and unmanned aircraft. According to President Trump, the targets of these operations include "Houthi leadership and equipment, command and control facilities, and munitions storage facilities."
President Trump provided assurance that these measures were being reported in alignment with the War Powers Resolution. He reaffirmed his commitment to protect American interests and navigational rights in the Red Sea, acting within his constitutional authority as Commander in Chief. In closing, President Trump expressed his appreciation for the support of Congress regarding these actions.
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