In a continued effort to retaliate against the Houthi group's repeated attacks on commercial shipping, the United States and the United Kingdom have conducted a second round of airstrikes in Yemen, according to two US defense officials.

Earlier this month, with support from other nations, the US and UK launched strikes at nearly 30 locations using 150 different weapons. These latest airstrikes mark the eighth round of attacks conducted by the US against the Houthi targets.

The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been responsible for over 30 attacks on commercial shipping lanes since November, prompting some shipping companies to alter their routes away from the Red Sea. Although no serious injuries have been reported from these attacks, the disruption caused by the Houthi group has raised concerns.

Recent US strikes targeted Houthi missiles in the preparation stage, successfully thwarting their launch attempts. In fact, the US conducted five preemptive strikes last week alone, including the two strikes carried out in response to missile preparations.

According to a US official, the initial strikes conducted by the US and UK significantly damaged the Houthis' air defense capabilities, enabling enhanced US surveillance over Yemen. This increased visibility allows the US to monitor the activities and preparations of the Houthi group more effectively.

Origins of the Houthi attacks have been attributed by Houthi spokespeople to their opposition to the Gaza conflict. However, US officials have stated that many of the targeted ships have no connection to Israel or its war with Hamas.

Initially, the US avoided direct strikes against the Houthi rebels, prioritizing the prevention of the Israeli-Hamas conflict from escalating into a wider war. However, it appears that the US has now deemed direct military action against Houthi targets a necessity.

In December, the Pentagon announced the establishment of an international task force called "Operation Prosperity Guardian." Consisting of around 20 countries, the task force serves as a Red Sea patrol to provide additional support to commercial ships if required.

While this international effort remains ongoing, the US has decided to continue its direct military action against the Houthi targets.