US launches new airstrikes on Yemen’s Al Hudaydah, say Houthis

By Shukri Hussein and Rania Abu Shamala

SANAA, Yemen / ISTANBUL (AA) - The Houthi group in Yemen announced Monday that fresh US airstrikes targeted the western province of Al Hudaydah, as Washington continues its intensified military campaign against the group.

According to the Houthi-affiliated Al-Masirah television channel, “The American aggression targeted Kamaran Island in Al Hudaydah province with two airstrikes.” No further details were immediately provided.

The latest strikes come amid a broader US escalation in Yemen. The Houthi-run Health Ministry reports that more than 60 people have been killed and over 140 injured -- including women and children -- since the US began its air campaign.

US President Donald Trump has defended the strikes, calling them “decisive and powerful military action” and warning that the Houthis could face complete annihilation if their attacks on maritime traffic persist.

Since late 2023, the Houthis have targeted Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Bab al-Mandab Strait using missiles and drones. The group says its actions are in support of Palestinians in Gaza, where over 50,250 people have been killed during Israel’s ongoing brutal military offensive.

The Houthis had briefly paused their maritime attacks following a January ceasefire between Israel and Hamas but resumed operations when Israel relaunched its assault on Gaza.