Escalation in Yemen: US Intensifies Strikes on Houthis, Dozens Killed

On the night of April 26, 2025, the United States conducted a series of airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen, resulting in dozens of fatalities, including a high-ranking official of the movement, according to rebel sources. These strikes are part of Operation “Rough Rider,” initiated by Washington in March in response to Houthi attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and strikes against Israel.

Houthi media reported that one of the airstrikes in the city of Al-Hazm, Al-Jawf province, killed Zain al-Abidin al-Muhturi, the head of Houthi internal security. Additionally, strikes were carried out in the capital Sana’a and the port city of Hodeida, where earlier in April, an attack on the Ras Isa oil terminal resulted in at least 74 deaths and 171 injuries.

According to U.S. officials, more than 500 Houthi fighters, including key commanders, have been eliminated since the campaign began. However, Houthi sources report that the strikes have also caused the deaths of dozens of civilians, including women and children.

The international community has expressed concern over the rising civilian casualties. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called on all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law and protect civilians.

The Houthis, backed by Iran, have declared that they will not cease their actions in support of Palestine and will continue attacks on Israeli and American targets. Recently, they launched a missile toward northern Israel for the first time, which, according to the Israeli military, was successfully intercepted.

Operation “Rough Rider” is ongoing, and analysts suggest the conflict may evolve into a protracted engagement, similar to the U.S. fight against ISIS in Syria and Iraq.