March 15, 2026 — Sanaa, Yemen President Donald Trump ordered U.S. airstrikes on Iran-backed Houthi rebel targets in Yemen’s capital, targeting bases, leaders, and missile defenses to protect American shipping and restore navigational freedom in key maritime routes.
The strikes, conducted solely by U.S. forces including the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group and USS Georgia cruise missile submarine, hit the northern Shouab district, Eastern Geraf neighborhood, and Sanaa airport complex, according to NPR reporting.
Trump’s Announcement and Rationale
In a statement, Trump described the action as using “overwhelming lethal force” against the Houthis until they cease attacks on commercial and naval vessels.
Our brave Warfighters are right now carrying out aerial attacks on the terrorists’ bases, leaders, and missile defenses to protect American shipping, air, and naval assets, and to restore Navigational Freedom. No terrorist force will stop American commercial and naval vessels from freely sailing the Waterways of the World.
The president blamed the Houthis’ disruptions for costing the U.S. and global economy “many BILLIONS of Dollars” and endangering lives, while warning Iran to cease support or face accountability.
Reported Casualties and Damage
The Houthi-run health ministry reported nine civilians killed and nine wounded in a residential area struck during the operation, per spokesman Anees al-Asbahi, as detailed in CNN coverage. Explosions rocked neighborhoods, with additional reports from BBC describing a “decisive and powerful” wave of strikes on dozens of targets.
Houthi Response
Houthi spokesperson Nasruddin Amer vowed retaliation, stating Sanaa would remain “Gaza’s shield” regardless of challenges. The group has previously targeted shipping in solidarity with Palestinians.
This marks a significant escalation under Trump’s administration, following earlier U.S. actions against the Houthis. No immediate reactions from Iran or Israel were detailed in initial reports, though the strikes align with ongoing efforts to secure Red Sea shipping lanes.
For related coverage, see AP top stories and Wikipedia summary.