The conflict between the United States and the Houthi movement, Ansar Allah, escalated significantly in mid-March 2025, with the Pentagon’s new spokesman, Sean Parnell, issuing stark threats to the Yemeni militant group. The US military has pledged to continue its relentless campaign, vowing to use “overwhelming, lethal force” against the Houthis until they cease their attacks on American naval vessels and those of commercial ships operating in the vital Red Sea shipping lanes.

The tension erupted after a series of Houthi drone and missile attacks targeted vessels in the Red Sea, a strategic waterway for global commerce, and one that has been threatened by the militant group since October 2023. The attacks have been disruptive to vital shipping routes in the region, affecting both Israeli-bound commercial vessels and other key maritime traffic. The Houthis have justified their actions as part of their broader support for Palestinians amidst Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza.

On March 15, 2025, US President Donald Trump declared that the US would take “powerful military action” against the Houthis, aiming to restore freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. The White House has been adamant that ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels in this crucial area is a top priority. In the wake of the attacks, the US military has carried out strikes on multiple Houthi positions within Yemen, signaling a broader, more aggressive campaign.

The Pentagon’s initial response has already proven to be forceful. On March 17, during his first press briefing, Sean Parnell stated that the US would continue to strike Houthi targets, including training sites, drone infrastructure, weapons depots, and command-and-control centers, until they halt their........

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