Biden confirmed strikes against Houthis in Yemen
President of the United States, Joe Biden (photo: Getty Images)
President Joe Biden has confirmed the authorization of a series of strikes against Houthi bases in Yemen, according to the White House press office.
"Today, at my direction, U.S. military forces - together with the United Kingdom and with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands - successfully conducted strikes against a number of targets in Yemen used by Houthi rebels to endanger freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most vital waterways," noted Biden.
According to him, these strikes are a direct response to the unprecedented Houthi attacks on international maritime vessels in the Red Sea, including the use of anti-ship ballistic missiles.
"These strikes are in direct response to unprecedented Houthi attacks against international maritime vessels in the Red Sea - including the use of anti-ship ballistic missiles for the first time in history. These attacks have endangered U.S. personnel, civilian mariners, and our partners, jeopardized trade, and threatened freedom of navigation. More than 50 nations have been affected in 27 attacks on international commercial shipping. Crews from more than 20 countries have been threatened or taken hostage in acts of piracy," he added.
The U.S. President also added that the international response to these attacks has been united and resolute.
"Last month, the United States launched Operation Prosperity Guardian—a coalition of more than 20 nations committed to defending international shipping and deterring Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. We also joined more than 40 nations in condemning Houthi threats," noted Biden.
He specifically emphasized that these strikes send a clear signal that the United States and its partners will not tolerate attacks and will not allow the endangerment of freedom of navigation on one of the world's most crucial commercial routes.
"I will not hesitate to direct further measures to protect our people and the free flow of international commerce as necessary," declared the president.
