The United States conducted a series of airstrikes on March 15, targeting Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen. The strikes, carried out by F/A-18E/F Super Hornets launched from the USS Harry S. Truman, focused on demolishing weapons storage facilities and command centers linked to recent Houthi assaults on commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea.
Renowned for its adaptability in both air-to-air combat and precision air-to-ground strikes, the Super Hornet is a key asset in modern combat scenarios. Its advanced radar systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and ability to carry a wide array of weapons make it an indispensable tool for U.S. military operations.
It played a significant role in the Iraq War, conducting precision strikes on high-value targets, and was extensively used in Afghanistan for close air support missions. Its advanced radar systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and extensive range of munitions make it a formidable asset in modern combat scenarios.
This deployment allows for rapid and continuous combat operations without reliance on land-based airstrips. Equipped with a full carrier air wing, the USS Harry S. Truman ensures real-time intelligence and comprehensive strike capability.
The Super Hornets participating in the operation were likely armed with precision-guided Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs), which utilize GPS and inertial navigation to ensure high accuracy and minimize collateral damage. Additionally, the aircraft carried AGM-88 High-speed Anti-Radiation Missiles (HARMs) designed to neutralize enemy radar installations and air defenses.
These airstrikes targeted strategic locations used by the Houthis for missile and drone storage and deployment.
U.S. intelligence reports suggest that Iran has been a significant supplier of advanced weaponry to the Houthis, including ballistic missiles and loitering munitions. The strikes aimed to weaken the Houthis’ offensive capabilities and secure the Red Sea’s crucial shipping lanes.
President Donald Trump, addressing the operation, stated, “Hell will rain down on them if they don’t stop.” He emphasized that the U.S. would use “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis ceased their attacks. Trump also issued a stern warning to Iran, the Houthis’ primary backer, saying, “America will hold you fully accountable, and we won’t be nice about it.”
The Houthis have increasingly targeted Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea, declaring a “ban” on their passage through the waterway.
These attacks have included the use of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and explosive-laden drones. The group claims these actions are in solidarity with Palestinians, particularly in response to Israel’s military operations and blockades in Gaza.
Since October 2023, the Houthis have carried out numerous attacks on shipping, including 174 assaults on U.S. Navy ships and 145 on commercial vessels. Their actions have disrupted global trade and heightened tensions in the region.
Following a temporary ceasefire in January 2024, the Houthis resumed their attacks when Israel imposed a new blockade in Gaza, cutting off humanitarian aid.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait, through which nearly 10% of the world’s oil shipments transit, has been a hotspot for Houthi attacks. Disruptions caused by such incidents have forced shipping companies to reroute, significantly impacting global trade and escalating costs.
The United States has long emphasized the importance of safeguarding this critical waterway for international economic stability. Following the airstrikes, the Houthis launched a double attack on the USS Harry S. Truman on March 16 in the northern Red Sea.
Houthi military spokesman Brigadier General Yahya Saree announced the deployment of 18 ballistic and cruise missiles alongside drones, describing the operation as a direct response to the U.S. strikes on Houthi-controlled areas, including Sanaa and Saada province near the Saudi border.
Saree warned, “The Yemeni Armed Forces will not hesitate to target all American warships in the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea in retaliation for the aggression against our country.” The Houthis have previously declared a “ban” on Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea, attacking them with similar military capabilities.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking on CBS, reinforced the U.S. stance: “We’re not going to have these people controlling which ships can go through and which ones cannot. This will go on until they no longer have the capability to do that.”
Iran has denied direct involvement in these actions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated, “The United States Government has no authority or business dictating Iranian foreign policy,” while accusing the U.S. of exacerbating the conflict.
Tehran continues to maintain that it does not dictate operational policies for its regional allies, including the Houthis. However, it is widely believed to be a key supplier of advanced weaponry to the group.
Meanwhile, China has called for “dialogue” and a de-escalation of tensions in the Red Sea. “China opposes any action that escalates the situation in the Red Sea,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told a regular briefing.
Beijing on Monday reiterated calls for diplomacy to resolve the tensions. “The reasons behind the situation in the Red Sea and the Yemen issue are complex and should be properly resolved through dialogue and negotiation,” Mao said.
- Penned By: Mohd. Asif Khan, ET Desk
- Mail us at: editor (at) eurasiantimes.com
