Trump Orders Major Military Operation Against Houthis in Yemen

US President Donald Trump has authorized a large-scale military operation against Yemen’s Houthis, whom Washington designates as a terrorist organization. The announcement, made via the social media platform Truth Social, comes in response to the Houthis’ ongoing attacks on US and international ships, aircraft, and drones in the Red Sea and surrounding waters.

In his statement, Trump emphasized that the operation aims to protect American interests and restore freedom of navigation in this strategically vital region. “Our valiant servicemen are currently carrying out air strikes on terrorist targets, including their bases, command centers, and missile defense systems,” he said. He added that the United States would not tolerate threats to its assets or the security of global maritime routes.

The president issued an ultimatum to the Houthis, stating, “Your time is up. Cease your attacks immediately, or you will face retribution the likes of which you have never seen.”.

Additionally, Trump directly addressed Iran, which the US claims provides substantial support to the Houthis, including arms and financial aid. “Iran must immediately stop supporting the Houthis. Do not dare threaten the American people and their president, who has received one of the most convincing mandates in history. Otherwise, America will hold you accountable for your actions, and we will not stand on ceremony,” he declared, underscoring his administration’s resolve.

This marks Trump’s first major military decision since returning to the White House in January 2025 and represents a shift in US policy towards the Houthis, whom he reclassified as a “foreign terrorist organization” earlier this year. During his first term in 2021, the Houthis had been designated as such, but the Biden administration reversed that decision, citing the need to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery in Yemen, which is experiencing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.