The United States conducted new airstrikes in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, and al-Bayda province on Wednesday, targeting Houthi-held areas in response to ongoing attacks on Red Sea shipping.
According to Houthi-operated media, strikes hit Sanaa’s Al-Jarraf district near the airport and a residential area in Al-Thawra, damaging an under-construction events hall. Nine people, mostly women and children, were injured.
Residents and officials confirmed strikes also struck Al-Suwaidia in al-Bayda province, a region housing Houthi military sites. This marks the latest escalation in US operations against the Iran-aligned group, which began last weekend and has killed at least 31 people.
President Donald Trump, who resumed office in January, warned Iran of “severe consequences” for backing Houthi attacks. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards denied directing the group, calling the Houthis independent.
Undeterred, the Houthis vowed to expand strikes on Israel and Red Sea shipping, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. On Tuesday, they fired a ballistic missile toward Israel, retaliating against renewed Israeli airstrikes in Gaza.
Since late 2023, the group has launched over 100 attacks on ships, disrupting global trade and prompting costly US-led interception efforts.
The Houthis belong to an Iran-backed regional alliance, including Hamas and Hezbollah, opposing Israel and Western influence. Analysts warn the conflict risks widening as both sides refuse to de-escalate.