The strikes have increased in recent weeks in the Red Sea (Picture: Getty)

The US and UK have ramped up joint air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, American officials have said.

It comes a week after the US and UK launched their first airstrikes on military facilities used by Houthi rebels in Yemen after their attacks on Red Sea vessels.

The strikes have sparked concerns over a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

Tonight’s strikes mark the eighth by the US against the Houthi rebels in Yemen, but is the second alongside the UK.

US fighter jets from the carrier Eisenhower were reported to be involved in the strikes.

US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke earlier today.

The White House said: ‘The president and prime minister discussed the importance of increasing humanitarian aid and civilian protections for people in Gaza, and securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.’