US B-2 Stealth Bombers Conduct Airstrikes on Houthi Rebels’ Bunkers in Yemen
In a strategic move, US long-range B-2 stealth bombers launched airstrikes targeting underground bunkers utilized by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The mission was carried out early Thursday morning, with officials reporting that the exact extent of the damage caused by the strikes was still unclear. This operation marks the first known use of the B-2 Spirit in strikes aimed at the Houthis, who have been actively threatening ships in the Red Sea corridor amid the Israel-Hamas conflict in the Gaza Strip.
According to reports, the Houthis’ al-Masirah satellite news channel confirmed airstrikes near Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, a city under Houthi control since 2014. Additionally, strikes were reported in the Houthi stronghold of Saada. However, details regarding casualties or damage resulting from the airstrikes were not immediately provided by the Houthis.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the B-2 bombers targeted “five hardened underground weapons storage locations in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen.” The operation is seen as a message not only to the Houthis but also as a warning to Iran, a key supporter of the rebels. Given the B-2’s capability to carry the GBU-57, also known as the “Massive Ordnance Penetrator,” it could potentially be used in future American strikes on heavily fortified Iranian nuclear facilities like Natanz or Fordo.
Austin emphasised that the mission showcased the United States’ ability to target facilities that adversaries seek to protect, no matter how deeply buried or fortified they may be. While immediate assessments on the impact of the strikes were not available from Austin or the US military’s Central Command, preliminary evaluations indicated that no civilian casualties had been reported.
The Red Sea has turned into a war zone for shippers due to the Houthis’ aggressive actions, targeting merchant vessels with missiles and drones since the Gaza conflict erupted in October 2023. The rebels have attacked over 80 ships, resulting in the seizure of one vessel and the sinking of two others. Although some missiles and drones have been intercepted, the attacks have raised concerns and led to casualties among sailors.
The Houthi rebels claim to target ships associated with Israel, the US, or the UK to pressure an end to Israel’s offensive against Hamas in Gaza. However, many of the targeted vessels have minimal or no connections to the conflict. Additionally, the rebels have continued their missile launches towards Israel and have even brought down several US MQ-9 Reaper drones.
The recent US airstrikes underscore the escalating tensions in the region and serve as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges surrounding the conflicts involving Yemen, Iran, and other key players in the Middle East.