President Trump is warning Houthi rebels and Iran that the United States will not be threatened. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt detailed the administration’s strategic military response against Houthi terrorists during a Fox News appearance, making it clear that Trump won’t be backing down.
At a glance:
• US conducted air strikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, targeting Bajel and a steel factory in Al-Salif
• White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt labeled the Houthis as “terrorists” and criticized former President Biden’s policies
• The strikes eliminated some Houthi leaders in response to attacks on vessels in the Red Sea
• President Trump warned further Houthi attacks would be considered acts of aggression by Iran
• The Defense Department is prepared to continue military pressure if the Houthis persist with retaliatory actions
Trump Administration Takes Decisive Action Against Houthis
The Trump administration has demonstrated its commitment to protecting American interests and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea through decisive military action against Houthi terrorists in Yemen – and in a recent statement, the White House Press Secretary doubled down on Trump’s position.
The weekend strikes targeted Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen’s Hodeida governorate, including Bajel and a steel factory in Al-Salif.
During an appearance on Fox News Channel’s “Hannity,” Leavitt said that the Trump administration will not tolerate threats to American vessels or interests.
“President Trump ordered a decisive military action against the Houthi terrorists in Yemen,” Leavitt said.
She’s been pretty brutal about the Biden administration’s record on the Houthis, too.
Biden Administration Blamed for Current Middle East Crisis
Leavitt also directly blamed the Biden administration for emboldening terrorists overseas – both in the Hannity interview and during a White House press briefing.
“Joe Biden’s pathetic weakness invited these unacceptable attacks,” Leavitt said, pointing to a pattern of appeasement that allegedly encouraged aggression.
The Houthi Health Ministry reported 53 fatalities and 98 wounded from the US attacks, while continuing to threaten American forces. Despite these threats, the administration remains committed to protecting freedom of navigation in vital shipping lanes that impact global commerce and security.
Continued Campaign and Warning to Iran
After promises by Houthi rebels to “escalate” following Trump’s strikes, the President hit back and warned that they would be unwise to try.
“Any further attack or retaliation by the ‘Houthis’ will be met with great force, and there is no guarantee that that force will stop there,” Trump warned.
Leavitt confirmed that the Defense Department “is set to continue with this campaign if the Houthis continue with their retaliatory measures.” The administration has successfully eliminated several Houthi leaders and is prepared to take further action if necessary to secure American interests and support regional allies.
