U.S forces hit Houthi targets in Yemen using B-2 bombers for the first time yesterday (10/16/2024). The operation targeted five underground weapon sites‚ Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated. This move shows Americas ability to reach hidden facilities.
The B-2 Spirit bombers (which cost over $1 billion each) were used to hit these targets. These planes can fly long distances from Missouri‚ USA and dont need to land thanks to mid-air refueling. They can carry up to 40‚000 pounds of weapons – both regular and nuclear.
This action comes as Israel gets ready to hit back at Iran. About two weeks ago‚ Iran sent around 180 missiles at Israel. The U.S. has said it will help protect Israel and recently sent its best missile defense system‚ THAAD‚ to the country.
Some U.S allies in the area are worried about the fight getting bigger. Qatar wont let the U.S use its Al Udeid Air Base to attack other countries.
The Houthis (who get help from Iran) have been attacking ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden for months. They use:
- missiles
- one-way attack drones
- remote-controlled boats with bombs
About 7 months ago‚ a Houthi missile hit a ship in the Gulf of Aden‚ killing three people.
We will continue to make clear to the Houthis that there will be consequences for their illegal and reckless attacks
The U.S. says it will keep taking action against the Houthis illegal attacks