[ANALYSIS] US and UK conducted airstrikes against Houthi rebel targets in Yemen

Analysis details (06:30)

US and UK Airstrikes in Yemen: The US and UK have conducted airstrikes against Houthi rebel targets in Yemen. These strikes were a response to the Houthi's attacks on ships in the Red Sea since November.

International Reactions:

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  Houthi: The Houthi deputy foreign minister warned that the US and UK will "pay a heavy price" for this "blatant aggression."


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  Iran and Hezbollah: Iran's foreign ministry and the Iran-backed Lebanese armed group Hezbollah condemned the airstrikes, the former said it is a violation of Yemen's sovereignty and international laws.


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  Russia: Russia requested an urgent UN Security Council meeting to discuss the strikes. Tass said the meeting was scheduled for 10:00EST/15:00GMT.

Details of the Strikes:

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  Targeted Locations: Strikes were reported in multiple locations in Yemen including the capital Sanaa, the Houthi Red Sea port of Hudaydah, Dhamar, and the north-western stronghold of Saada, according to the BBC.


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  Nature of Strikes: The strikes included more than 60 targets across 16 locations, focusing on Houthi command and control nodes, munitions depots, launching systems, and air defense systems.

Ongoing Houthi Activities: Despite the airstrikes, the Houthis have stated they will continue targeting Israel-linked ships in the Red Sea, according to a spokesperson on X.

US Position and Strategy:

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  Avoiding Escalation: The US, while targeting the Houthis, has avoided direct mention of Iran in its official statements, indicating an attempt to prevent further regional escalation.


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  Possible Further Measures: President Biden hinted at additional steps to ensure the protection of international commerce and US interests.


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  Coalition Support and Self-Defence: The airstrikes were supported by a coalition including the Netherlands, Australia, Canada, and Bahrain, framed as actions of self-defense under international law.

12 Jan 2024 - 06:30- Research Sheet- Source: Newsquawk