US launches strike on Houthi radar site in Yemen

New Delhi, Jan 13: The United States military has conducted an additional strike on a Houthi-controlled radar site in Yemen. This action follows a series of larger-scale attacks carried out jointly by the United States and the United Kingdom.

The latest strike, which was executed by a U.S. naval vessel, is part of an ongoing effort to reduce the Houthis' capabilities to launch maritime attacks.

The Houthi group, however, reported no casualties from this strike and has promised a robust and effective counter-response. The United States maintains that the objective of these attacks is to impede the Houthis' ongoing drone and missile assaults on ships in the Red Sea.

The Houthis have justified their actions as a response to Israel's military operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip and have warned of retaliation against U.S. and UK forces, which they accuse of aggressive behaviour. A recent missile launch by the Houthis, aimed at a target, was unsuccessful, according to Pentagon reports.

Amidst these developments, there is growing concern over Iran's alleged support to the Houthis, including the provision of weapons and intelligence.

In a recent statement, U.S. President Joe Biden cautioned the Houthis against continuing their hostile actions, warning of further U.S. military response. This statement was made hours before the U.S. executed the latest strike on the radar facility.

While the Biden administration has expressed a desire to avoid confrontation with the Houthis, who control a significant portion of Yemen, military preparedness remains a priority.

In a related incident, an apparent Houthi attack near the Red Sea resulted in a missile landing approximately 500 meters from an oil tanker.

Concurrently, in Gaza, the Israeli military's operations continue, with recent bombardments leading to significant casualties in Gaza City and the central Gaza Strip.

Israeli forces have targeted and neutralised alleged terrorists in Khan Younis and destroyed rocket launchers and tunnels. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the death toll in the region has risen to 23,843 since October 7.

In response to the escalating situation, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) has announced a temporary halt to military actions in Rafah for humanitarian purposes, following intense overnight attacks on the city.