The United States (U.S.) military launched precision airstrikes in Yemen’s capital, Sana’a targeting Houthi-operated facilities. The strikes, carried out on Saturday, followed a missile attack by Iran-backed Houthi rebels that struck Tel Aviv, Israel, injuring nearly 20 people.
The U.S. airstrikes targeted two Houthi-operated sites: a missile storage facility and a command-and-control center in Sana’a.
CENTCOM Conducts Airstrikes Against Iran-Backed Houthi Missile Storage and Command/Control Facilities in Yemen
TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted precision airstrikes against a missile storage facility and a command-and-control facility operated by… pic.twitter.com/YRWWQJIweP
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) December 21, 2024
The operation involved U.S. Navy and Air Force assets, including F/A-18 fighter jets. During the mission. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces intercepted multiple Houthi drones and an anti-ship cruise missile over the Red Sea.
CENTCOM stated that the operation aimed to “disrupt and degrade” Houthi capabilities, specifically attacks on U.S. Navy warships, merchant vessels, and other targets in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb Strait, and Gulf of Aden.
Hours before the U.S. strikes, the Houthis launched a ballistic missile at central Israel, which landed in the Tel Aviv-Jaffa area. The Israeli military confirmed it failed to intercept the missile. Local emergency services reported 16 injuries, all classified as minor.
The Houthis stated that the strikes were intended to pressure Israel to cease its military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in significant casualties.
