Yemen's Houthis claim U.S. aircraft carrier attacks

Houthi rebels attack U.S. carrier group in response to American strikes, escalating tensions in Yemen conflict.

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels said they attacked an American aircraft carrier group twice within 24 hours as they prepared for huge rallies on Monday (March 17, 2025) after U.S. strikes left dozens dead.

The response from the Houthis follows attacks ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump that hammered the rebel-held capital, Sanaa, and several other areas, killing 53 people, according to the rebels.

The United States struck the Houthis over their repeated attacks on Red Sea shipping sparked by the Gaza war, which have put a major strain on the vital trade route.

The rebels said they had hit back by firing 18 missiles and a drone at the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier group on Sunday, before launching a second strike hours later.

There was no immediate comment from the United States about the Houthis' claimed attacks.

In a statement posted to Telegram, a Houthi spokesperson said the attacks were "in retaliation to the continued American aggression against our country".

Washington has vowed to keep striking Yemen until the rebels stop attacking Red Sea shipping, with Mr. Trump warning he would use "overwhelming lethal force".