Washington DC [US], April 28 (ANI): The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has launched over 800 targeted strikes against the Houthi terrorist group in Yemen since March 15. The operation aims to restore “freedom of navigation” and reinforce American deterrence in the region.
In a statement released on Sunday, CENTCOM, responsible for overseeing military operations in the Middle East, revealed that the campaign has led to a substantial reduction in Houthi attacks on international shipping. Ballistic missile launches have dropped by 69%, and drone strikes have decreased by 55%.
“Since March 15, USCENTCOM forces have conducted a sustained and intense campaign targeting the Houthi terrorist organisation in Yemen to restore freedom of navigation and American deterrence,” CENTCOM stated. The statement emphasized that the operation would continue to increase pressure on the Houthis, further dismantling their capabilities as long as they obstruct international shipping routes.
Operation Rough Rider, launched by USCENTCOM, has involved more than 800 strikes, killing hundreds of Houthi fighters and leaders, including key missile and UAV officials. The strikes have also successfully destroyed multiple command-and-control facilities, air defense systems, weapons manufacturing plants, and storage locations containing advanced weaponry, such as anti-ship missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and uncrewed surface vessels used in attacks on international shipping lanes.
“These strikes have degraded the pace and effectiveness of Houthi attacks,” CENTCOM stated. The frequency of ballistic missile launches has dropped by 69%, while attacks from one-way attack drones have fallen by 55%.
In addition, CENTCOM reported that US strikes have crippled the Ras Isa Port’s ability to receive fuel, significantly hindering the Houthis’ operations and their revenue generation for terrorism.
The operation has been carried out by a robust assembly of forces, including two Carrier Strike Groups: the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group and the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group. CENTCOM expressed pride in the well-trained and professional forces who have effectively delivered precise and lethal strikes.
Further criticizing Iran’s role, CENTCOM stated, “Iran undoubtedly continues to support the Houthis. They can only persist in their attacks on our forces with backing from the Iranian regime. We will maintain our pressure until our objectives are met, which are the restoration of freedom of navigation and American deterrence in the region.”
Houthi attacks on vessels have intensified since the onset of the war between Israel and Gaza, despite warnings from President Joe Biden to Iran and its allies to refrain from engaging in the conflict.
Initially, the Houthis claimed they would only target ships linked to Israel. However, they have since broadened their attacks to vessels associated with various other nations.
(ANI)
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