Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Apr 16: The United States on Wednesday launched a fresh wave of heavy airstrikes across Yemen, targeting over 50 Houthi positions in the north, centre, and west of the country, according to Houthi-run al-Masirah TV.

The Houthis have not disclosed casualties from the strikes but issued a stern warning that the attacks “will not go unanswered.” The group also reaffirmed its intent to continue targeting vessels linked to the US and Israel.

This escalation comes amid renewed maritime threats. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a vessel sailing roughly 100 nautical miles east of Aden was pursued by multiple armed boats for nearly two hours late Tuesday. Shots were fired, prompting the ship’s captain to steer toward the Yemeni coast. The attackers then retreated, and all crew members were reported safe.

This was the first such incident in the region reported by UKMTO in months, heightening concerns over shipping security in the Red Sea and nearby waters.

Meanwhile, Houthi forces claimed to have downed a US MQ-9 Reaper drone on Sunday — their 19th since November 2023. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said the drone was shot down over Hajjah province using a locally made surface-to-air missile, declaring that American strikes have failed to weaken their combat strength.

The US resumed its air campaign against the Houthis on March 15, citing efforts to deter attacks on US and Israeli assets in the Red Sea. The Houthis, who control significant territory in northern Yemen, have been launching drone and missile strikes since last November in what they say is an act of solidarity with Palestinians under Israeli assault in Gaza.