At least two people were injured and more than a dozen civilians killed in U.S. airstrikes across Yemen on Monday, as the United States stepped up attacks in response to Houthi threats to resume Red Sea operations in retaliation for Israel's blockade of Gaza.
Houthi-run Al-Masirah TV said nine airstrikes targeted two cities in Saada province late on Monday, following strikes on Sunday that hit a residential building in the Maeen district of central Sanaa, killing and injuring more than 14 civilians.
In Sanaa, residents described scenes of devastation, with school supplies, water tanks and personal belongings strewn across the rubble.
"We were sitting safely in our homes. As we were returning from the mosque, we suddenly heard the bombing right above us, here in front of the Civil Status Authority. What did they gain from striking a civilian home? There was no benefit. It’s not a government or military building. What was the purpose?" said witness Yahya al-Jamali.
"We tell America that we stand firm in supporting Gaza. Today, our blood has mixed with the blood of Gaza's people. We will never abandon our principles, no matter the sacrifices," said Sanaa resident Mohammed al-Asri.
The latest wave of strikes came less than 24 hours after similar operations in Marib, Hodeidah and Saada -- areas controlled by Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis.
The US said its airstrikes aim to disrupt the group's military capabilities at sea, where Houthi forces have launched repeated drone and missile attacks on commercial shipping. The ongoing campaign is the first of its kind since President Donald Trump returned to office.
"These ongoing attacks on civilian areas in Yemen will not achieve the US goal of stopping military operations. Yemen will certainly escalate its response. It has become clear that, despite dozens of airstrikes on Yemen, the attacks have not stopped them. Instead, Yemen has expanded its operations to also target US ships," said Hussain al-Bukhaiti, a Yemeni writer and politician.
As the airstrikes continue, the International Committee of the Red Cross has urged all parties to take every precaution to protect civilians and prevent further loss of life and damage to civilian property.
The deepening humanitarian toll has triggered concern from international observers, with expectations of further escalation in the coming days as tensions rise in the region.
US strikes kill civilians in Yemen as Houthis vow Red Sea retaliation
US strikes kill civilians in Yemen as Houthis vow Red Sea retaliation
US strikes kill civilians in Yemen as Houthis vow Red Sea retaliation
US strikes kill civilians in Yemen as Houthis vow Red Sea retaliation
