U.S. Airstrikes Escalate in Yemen, Killing 8 in Sanaa

What Happened

U.S. airstrikes overnight in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, killed at least eight people, according to Houthi rebels. The strikes are part of a broader American campaign called “Operation Roughrider,” which has carried out over 800 strikes in the past month.

U.S. Military’s Statement

The U.S. Central Command said the strikes have killed "hundreds" of Houthi fighters and leaders, especially those involved in missile and drone programs. However, the military did not name any individuals.

The U.S. said the campaign will continue to pressure the Houthis until freedom of navigation in the Red Sea is restored and American forces are protected.

Why It Matters

The Houthis have attacked ships in the Red Sea and targeted Israel. The U.S. believes Iran is backing the Houthis, calling them part of Iran’s “Axis of Resistance.” Restoring safe trade routes and deterring Iranian influence are key U.S. goals in the region.

Details of the Latest Strikes

• Strikes hit the ​​Bani Al Harith District near Sanaa.

• Bloodstains and wrecked vehicles were shown in Houthi-released footage.

• Strikes also targeted the Amran and Saada governorates.

• Two additional people were reported killed on Sunday.

• The health ministry has not confirmed the death toll.

  
  

Broader Impact

• A major U.S. strike on April 18 at Ras Isa fuel port killed at least 74 people and wounded 171 others.

• Central Command said destroying the port would weaken the Houthis by cutting off fuel supplies and revenue.

  
  

Information Control

The Houthis have tightened control over information. On Sunday, they ordered citizens to surrender Starlink satellite internet receivers or face arrest. Starlink has been used to bypass government internet controls in other conflict zones like Ukraine and Iran.

What’s Next?

The U.S. plans to keep up the pressure without revealing specific operational details. American strikes are being launched from two aircraft carriers — the USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea and the USS Carl Vinson in the Arabian Sea.