US Launches Airstrikes in Yemen, Killing 31

The US launched airstrikes in Yemen, killing at least 31 people, mostly women and children, in response to Houthi threats to attack Israeli ships, marking the largest US military operation in the Middle East since President Donald Trump took office.

The airstrikes, which may continue for weeks, targeted a building in a Houthi stronghold and a power station in the town of Dahyan, leading to a power cut. The US accused the Houthis of being backed by Iran and warned Iran to halt its support for the group, saying it will be held "fully accountable" if it doesn't comply. The Houthis have launched scores of attacks on ships off their coast since November 2023, disrupting global commerce and burning through US air defenses.

The Houthis' political bureau described the attacks as a "war crime" and said their armed forces are prepared to respond to escalation. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi condemned the US strikes, saying they violated international law. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov urged the US to cease strikes against Yemen's Houthis and engage in dialogue.

The US administration of then-president Joe Biden had sought to degrade the Houthis' ability to attack vessels off its coast but limited the US actions. US officials say Trump has authorized a more aggressive approach. The US military operation is part of a broader effort to pressure Iran over its nuclear program, with the US imposing sanctions and seeking negotiations.

The situation in Yemen remains volatile, with the Houthis threatening to resume attacks on Israeli ships if the US doesn't stop supporting Israel. The international community is watching the developments closely, with many calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.