On Wednesday, the US military disclosed that American forces had specifically targeted 14 missiles set for launch in Yemen. This action followed the recent reclassification of the Iran-backed Huthi rebels as a “terrorist” entity by Washington, a move prompted by the rebels’ repeated assaults on merchant vessels.
In response to the designation, the Huthis, who have previously endured multiple rounds of airstrikes for their targeting of international shipping, attacked a US-owned bulk cargo carrier. Despite the announcement, they expressed their intent to persist in these assaults, asserting that their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
According to a statement from Central Command (CENTCOM), the US forces carried out strikes on the 14 Iran-backed Huthi missiles, which were loaded and prepared for firing in areas controlled by the Huthis in Yemen.
CENTCOM stated that the missiles positioned on launch rails posed an imminent threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region. The potential for these missiles to be fired at any moment compelled US forces to exercise their inherent right and obligation to defend themselves.
In the Yemeni port city of Hodeida, resident Hani Kayed, aged 44, reported hearing an explosion at approximately 2:16 am (2316 GMT Wednesday) in the eastern part of the city near the airport. Hodeida and Taez were targeted in the initial round of US and UK strikes in Yemen last week. According to Huthi media outlet Al-Masirah TV, both cities were again impacted in the recent strikes, along with three other areas.
On the same day, the United States declared its decision to reclassify the Huthis as a “terrorist” group. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a statement, announced the designation of Ansarallah, commonly known as the Huthis, as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group, effective 30 days from the announcement.
During the 30-day implementation delay, the US government plans to engage in extensive outreach to stakeholders, aid providers, and partners crucial for facilitating humanitarian assistance and the commercial import of critical commodities in Yemen.
