The United States launched airstrikes, targeting key weapons storage sites controlled by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. In this operation, the US used B-2 Spirit stealth bombers for the first time against the Houthi forces in Yemen. This is important because it is the first time these special planes have been used since the US started getting involved in the Yemen conflict.

The Pentagon, the headquarters of the United States military, reported that five Houthi rebel underground storage centres were bombed in the process. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said these storage sites held advanced weapons that the Houthis used to threaten both civilian and military ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The B-2 Spirit bomber is a special type of plane that is very hard to detect and can carry a lot more bombs than regular fighter jets. This makes it good at attacking targets that are well protected.

Secretary Austin also said that President Joe Biden ordered the airstrikes. He noted, for instance, the ability of the U.S. military to identify concealed areas, no matter how deep they are hidden. This operation demonstrates that the US is willing to act on threats in the region.

 

Rising tensions in the middle east

 

These airstrikes happen during a time of increasing problems in the Middle East, where US friends, especially Israel, face ongoing threats from Iran and its supported groups. The Houthis have attacked many commercial and military ships, causing disruptions in one of the busiest sea trade routes in the world. Recently, their attacks have become more frequent and involve missiles and drones aimed at US Navy and other international ships.

The Houthis are using weapons from their hidden storage sites, which poses risks for global trade and the environment. For example, in August, they attacked a Greek ship, causing an oil spill that raised concerns about harming the environment.

In September, the Houthis fired nearly 24 missiles and drones at US Navy ships, but none of the attacks hit their targets. However, these actions prompted strong military responses from US forces in the area.