The United States conducted a series of strikes in Yemen targeting the Iran-backed Houthi rebels on Wednesday evening. The strikes aimed at weapons storage facilities, including underground sites, which housed advanced conventional weapons used to target military and civilian vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
The operation involved the use of B-2 Spirit bombers, marking the first time these strategic stealth bombers have been deployed against the Houthis in Yemen since the start of the US campaign. The B-2 bombers, being larger platforms than the fighter jets previously used, are capable of carrying a heavier load of bombs.
This strike against the Iran-backed proxy group occurs amidst heightened tensions in the region. Israel is expected to respond to Iran's recent missile attacks before the upcoming US election on November 5. Additionally, conflicts persist between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, as well as with Hamas in Gaza.
The recent strike, which took place early Thursday morning local time, is part of a series of retaliatory actions between the Houthis and the US. The Houthis have been carrying out continuous attacks on commercial shipping and Navy assets in the region over the past few months.
Furthermore, the deployment of US service members to Israel has commenced following the announcement of an advanced anti-missile system to aid in protecting Israel against potential threats, particularly in response to Iran's recent missile barrage.