In response to repeated attacks by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, US and UK naval forces have carried out air strikes on 16 Houthi targets across Yemen. The strikes involved warship-launched Tomahawk cruise missiles and fighter jets, hitting sites in the capital city of Sanaa and the Houthi stronghold of Hudaydah.

The attacks were prompted by the Houthi rebel group's targeting of commercial vessels in the Red Sea, which they claim are linked to Israel. The rebels have also launched drones and missiles towards Israel, allegedly in retaliation for Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip.

The US officials reported that the strikes targeted logistical hubs, air defense systems, and arms depots belonging to the Houthi rebels. The United States, with support from countries including Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, delivered a clear message that attacks on their personnel or threats to freedom of navigation will not be tolerated.

US President Joe Biden emphasized the successful nature of the strikes and highlighted the importance of defending personnel and maintaining freedom of navigation. However, Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam condemned the air strikes, stating that there was no justification for them and vowing to continue targeting Israeli ships.

Iran and Hezbollah, both allies of the Houthi rebels, have also criticized the attacks. The latest air strikes mark the first such action by the US military in the Red Sea since November, when the Houthi rebel group began launching drone and missile attacks on shipping.

Meanwhile, the UK also joined the military operation, with four RAF Typhoon jets conducting air strikes using Paveway bombs on two Houthi targets in Yemen. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described the strikes as "limited, necessary, and proportionate action in self-defense." He condemned the Houthi militia's "reckless actions" and reiterated the UK's commitment to freedom of navigation and the flow of trade.

Houthi attacks on merchant vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden have significantly escalated, posing risks to lives, disrupting global trade, and destabilizing the region. Shipping companies have chosen to avoid the Red Sea, resulting in a 20% decrease in container ship traffic and a tenfold increase in insurance costs since early December.

These air strikes have sparked a debate, with some members of Joe Biden's party expressing concerns about the lack of congressional approval for the strikes on Yemen. As the situation in Yemen continues to unfold, the international community is closely monitoring the developments and assessing the impact on regional stability and global shipping.