US, UK launch new Strikes in Yemen amid tensions over Gaza conflict

U.S. and U.K. fighter jets have launched Strikes in Yemen Saada province, hitting the Ar Rahaba region twice in what Yemenis interpret as an escalation tied to their vocal support for Palestine.

“These attacks are part of a clear message from the West to deter our support for Palestine,” said a Yemeni government official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. “But Yemen will not be silenced. Our commitment to Gaza and to resisting occupation is unwavering.”

The strikes come amid Yemen’s outspoken stance against Israel’s actions in Gaza. Since October 7, when Palestinian Resistance groups launched Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, Yemen has expressed solidarity with Palestinians. Yemeni Armed Forces have pledged to continue their actions “until unrelenting Israeli ground and aerial offensives in Gaza,” which have led to thousands of casualties, “come to an end.”

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The U.S. and U.K., who in December announced a military coalition targeting Yemen, reportedly in support of Israel, have faced sharp criticism from regional allies for their involvement. “By backing these airstrikes, the U.S. and U.K. are risking further destabilization in an already fragile region,” said an official from a neighboring Gulf state. “The people of Yemen see this as an extension of Western interference.”

With Middle Eastern tensions at a high, these strikes underscore the growing complexity and global entanglement of the Gaza conflict.