Ongoing Offensive: Biden Administration Carries Out Further Strikes Against Houthi Targets

In a relentless response to ongoing Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, the United States conducted another strike targeting anti-ship missiles, according to the US Central Command. 

This marks the fifth strike against Houthi fighters in the past week, as the militant group persists in targeting ships in the region.

Biden Vows to Persist

The recent strike focused on two anti-ship missiles positioned in the Southern Red Sea, posing an imminent threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships. President Joe Biden, acknowledging the strikes have not deterred the Houthi group, stated that the attacks will continue.

In a late Thursday development, CENTCOM confirmed another Houthi attack on the M/V Chem Ranger vessel, a US-owned tanker ship. 

Although both missiles missed the ship and landed in the water, it marked the third terrorist attack on a commercial vessel in three days.

US Continues Airstrikes on Houthi

The series of retaliatory strikes began on January 11, with the US leading a coalition in large-scale airstrikes against multiple Houthi targets in Yemen.

Following this, the Houthis fulfilled their vow to retaliate by striking a US-owned and operated commercial ship, resulting in no injuries or significant damage.

In addition to the military response, the US announced the redesignation of the Houthis as a global terror group this week. Despite concerns about potential impacts on aid and commercial goods flow to Yemeni civilians, the designation is set to take effect in 30 days.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the designation aims to hold the group accountable for its terrorist activities and emphasized the possibility of reconsideration if Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden cease.