Houthi rebels attack US ships second time in 24 hours
What's the story
Iran-backed Houthi rebels have claimed a second attack on an American aircraft carrier group in 24 hours.
The move is reportedly revenge for recent US airstrikes that killed at least 53 people, including five children.
The strikes were launched with missiles and drones against the USS Harry S Truman and its warships, stationed in the northern Red Sea.
Civilian toll
US retaliatory strikes led to high civilian casualties
The US retaliatory airstrikes targeted Houthi positions in Yemen's capital Sanaa and other provinces including Houthi stronghold Saada.
These strikes have led to heavy civilian casualties.
The Houthi health ministry reported that the 53 killed included women and children while 98 others were wounded.
While Washington says some key Houthi figures are among the dead, the group has not confirmed this.
Escalation pledge
Houthi rebels vow to escalate attacks amid US strikes
In response to US airstrikes, the Houthi political bureau has vowed to "meet escalation with escalation."
Despite their actions, they deny threatening international shipping and reaffirmed support for Gaza.
The group warned if "the American aggression against our country continues," it would consider further escalatory options.
Notably, as part of Operation Poseidon Archer, a US-led alliance has launched a series of missile and air strikes since January 2024.
UN intervention
UN calls for cessation of military activities
The UN has urged both the US military and Yemen's Houthi rebels to stop "all military activity," after a fresh round of deadly strikes and threats of reprisal.
The UN Secretary-General's spokesman was concerned about US strikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen that killed and injured, and the continued threats by Houthis to renew their attacks on vessels in the Red Sea.