Trump orders US airstrikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen kills 31

March 16, 2025 – The death toll from US airstrikes on Houthi-held areas in Yemen has risen to 31, including women and children, according to the Houthi-run health ministry. 101 others were reported injured in the overnight attacks.

Ministry spokesman Anees al-Asbahi confirmed the casualties on Sunday following a series of airstrikes ordered by former US President Donald Trump. The strikes targeted key locations in the capital Sanaa and the northern province of Saada, a stronghold of the Iran-backed insurgent group.

In a statement posted on social media, Trump justified the military action by declaring it a response to persistent Houthi attacks on international shipping along the strategic sea corridor. “Our brave warfighters are currently conducting airstrikes against terrorist targets, leaders and missile defences to protect US shipping, air and naval assets and restore navigational freedom,” Trump said. He further said, “No terrorist force will be able to prevent American commercial and naval vessels from sailing freely on the world’s waterways.”

The former president also issued a stern warning to Iran, accusing it of fueling the ongoing conflict by supporting the Houthis. He vowed to hold Tehran “fully accountable” for the rebel group’s actions. The escalation comes two weeks after Trump made a diplomatic offer to Iranian leaders seeking renewed negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program – a move he is unlikely to allow to come to fruition.

The Houthis reported explosions in several areas on Saturday evening, and heavy bombardments continued until Sunday morning. The attacks mark a significant development in the ongoing tensions in the region, raising fears of further escalation and humanitarian consequences in Yemen, a country already plagued by a long-running conflict.

International reactions

The airstrikes have been criticised by humanitarian groups and regional leaders, who have warned of potential civilian casualties and worsening instability. Observers agree that Yemen’s conflict remains a very complex issue, involving many international actors with competing interests.

As tensions continue to escalate, the global community is closely watching the next steps of both the US and Iran, as well as the Houthis’ response to the intensified military campaign.