The United States launched large-scale strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen reportedly aimed at countering the group’s continued attacks on global shipping in the Red Sea, which had recently declined amid the ceasefire in Gaza. The strikes reportedly killed at least 53 people – including five children. U.S. officials indicated that were reportedly meant to serve as a warning to Iran to halt its ongoing support for the Houthis.
In response to the strikes and accompanying warnings, Iran’s top IRGC Commander, Hossein Salami, stated in response that the Houthis maintain their own strategic decisions and are independent. Salami continued that “We warn our enemies that Iran will respond decisively and destructively if they take their threats into action.”