The rebel group in Yemen states, “All U.S., UK interests have become ‘legitimate targets.’”
The United States and British militaries bombed more than 60 targets in Yemen which the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have reportedly used as “command and control nodes, munitions depots, launching systems, production factories, and air defense radar systems.” According to the White House, Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, and Bahrain were supportive of the air strikes.
President Biden stated, “These strikes are in direct response to unprecedented Houthi attacks against international maritime vessels in the Red Sea — including the use of anti-ship ballistic missiles for the first time in history. … I will not hesitate to direct further measures to protect our people and the free flow of international commerce as necessary.”
British Prime Minister Sunak said the strike was “limited, necessary, and proportionate action in self-defense.” Iran, Russia, and Turkey criticized the action, with Turkey’s President Erdogan calling it “disproportionate.”
In Yemen, thousands rallied in the streets saying the U.S. and Britain “will pay a heavy price for this aggression.” The Houthis stated, “All US, UK interests have become ‘legitimate targets.’”
Reactions from U.S. legislators have been mixed, with some claiming that President Biden should have sought the authorization of Congress under the War Powers Act before proceeding with the attacks.
Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina stated he was “very supportive of the Biden administration’s decision to strike Houthi rebels who have been harassing international shipping and trying to attack Israeli and American interests.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For wisdom for the president, his military advisors, and leaders in the Pentagon as they assess the situation with the Houthi rebels in Yemen.
- For General Kurilla and other military officials as they oversee operations in the Middle East.
- For members of Congress to be discerning in their responses to the president’s retaliatory military response.
- For U.S. and allied governing officials to be prudent in their decisions and actions.
Sources: AP, Reuters, BBC News, The Hill, AlJazeera, India Today, TV7 Israel News, Newsweek
