In a significant military operation, Britain has worked alongside the U.S. to strike Houthi targets in Yemen for the first time since President Trump resumed leadership. The move, which aims to disrupt Houthi capabilities against international shipping, underscores the ongoing conflict and its broader implications for maritime security.
UK Collaborates with US in Airstrikes Against Houthis in Yemen
UK Collaborates with US in Airstrikes Against Houthis in Yemen
The UK military joins American forces in a strategic operation targeting Houthi militia as tensions escalate in the region.
Britain’s military has announced that it conducted a joint operation with U.S. forces targeting the Houthi militia in Yemen, marking the first such collaboration since President Trump re-assumed office. This coordinated effort is part of an escalated tactical approach against the Iran-backed group, which has been increasingly aggressive in the region.
The British Defense Ministry stated on Wednesday that the overnight operation aimed to "degrade Houthi capabilities and prevent further attacks against U.K. and international shipping." Precision-guided bombs deployed by Typhoon jets targeted a cluster of Houthi-controlled buildings believed to be used for drone manufacturing, situated approximately 15 miles from the capital, Sana.
While the ministry withheld specific casualty figures or damage assessments, it emphasized that extensive planning was implemented to minimize the risk to civilians and non-military infrastructure. The operation was executed under the cover of darkness, strategically timed to further reduce the likelihood of civilian presence in the targeted area.
The Houthi militia has ramped up its offensive against commercial and naval vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since the fall of 2023, citing their actions as support for Palestinians amidst the violence in Gaza. Previously, Britain participated in airstrikes against Houthi targets under the direction of former President Joseph R. Biden Jr. beginning in January 2024.
Most recently, in March, President Trump launched “Operation Rough Rider,” a directive that has seen American forces target over 800 Houthi sites thus far. The recent joint operation raises questions concerning operational security, particularly following Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's inadvertent disclosure of sensitive mission details via the Signal messaging app, which could affect future collaborations with American allies.
As tensions continue to mount, the collaboration between the UK and the US reflects ongoing commitments to counter threats to maritime safety and stability in the volatile Horn of Africa region.
