US and UK launch strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen

The US and UK have jointly conducted strikes on 36 Houthi targets spread across 13 locations in Yemen. This action follows the US launching strikes on 85 targets in Syria and Iraq on Friday, responding to a deadly drone attack on a US military base. 

Houthi rebels in Yemen, supported by Iran, initiated attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea in November, causing disruptions in global supply chains. Shipping companies have shifted away from using the Red Sea, responsible for nearly 15% of global seaborne trade, opting for a longer route around southern Africa instead. 

Despite the Houthis claiming solidarity with Palestinians and targeting Israeli-linked ships, many attacked vessels have had no connection to Israel. 

UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps stated that these latest strikes are not an escalation, emphasising that the Houthis’ attacks on vessels in the Red Sea are deemed illegal and unacceptable.