By South China Morning Post | Created at 2025-03-15 19:11:23 | Updated at 2025-03-16 02:15:40
7 hours ago
US President Donald Trump said he ordered a series of air strikes on Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, on Saturday, promising to use “overwhelming lethal force” until Iranian-backed Houthi rebels cease their attacks on shipping along a vital maritime corridor.
“Our brave Warfighters are right now carrying out aerial attacks on the terrorists’ bases, leaders, and missile defences to protect American shipping, air, and naval assets, and to restore Navigational Freedom,” Trump said in a social media post.
“No terrorist force will stop American commercial and naval vessels from freely sailing the Waterways of the World.”
He also warned Iran to stop supporting the rebel group, promising to hold the country “fully accountable” for the actions of its proxy.
The Houthis reported a series of explosions in their territory on Saturday evening. Images circulating online show plumes of black smoke over the area of the Sanaa airport complex, which includes a sprawling military facility.
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Violence at sea: how armed attacks on the high seas affect mariners
Violence at sea: how armed attacks on the high seas affect mariners
The extent of the damage was not yet clear.
