Clashes Erupt Between U.S. and Houthi Forces in Yemen’s Turbulent Landscape

On Monday, U.S. Central Command found itself in a prolonged exchange of fire with Yemen’s Houthi rebels for the 17th consecutive day. The U.S. Navy ramped up its efforts, launching more Tomahawk missile strikes and airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen. Meanwhile, the Houthis claimed to have downed another U.S.MQ-9 Reaper drone near Marib, although this assertion remains unverified and no footage has surfaced.

In a statement on Monday, President Donald Trump remarked, “The Iran-backed Houthi terrorists have faced severe losses due to our ongoing strikes over the past two weeks. Many of their fighters and leaders are no longer operational.” He added that the Houthis must choose: cease attacks on U.S. vessels or face even harsher consequences ahead—implying that this is just the beginning for both them and their Iranian backers.

Recent airstrikes targeted Sanaa, resulting in one reported casualty according to Houthi media outlets. Another strike hit a moving vehicle in Hajjah, claiming two lives. Notably, the Trump administration has shifted strategies by focusing on individual Houthi military leaders—a tactic not seen during Biden’s tenure.

CENTCOM Forces continue attacks on Houthi Positions…#HouthisAreTerrorists pic.twitter.com/NiONzwUEA7

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 1, 2025

National security Advisor Mike Waltz asserted that operations had eliminated the Houthis’ “top missile guy” during initial bombardments; though, military sources have yet to confirm these claims as per Reuters reports. The Pentagon and White House remain tight-lipped about any high-profile targets potentially neutralized in these strikes.

Experts analyzing Yemen’s protracted conflict caution against underestimating the resilience of the Houthis.

“They can endure significant hardship,” noted Michael Knights from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy when speaking with Reuters about public coercion efforts against them being largely ineffective. “We might be chasing an unrealistic goal if we think we can force them into submission.”