The Iran-aligned Houthi group has claimed responsibility for targeting the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman and its accompanying fleet in the northern Red Sea, launching 18 missiles and drones in the alleged attack. This announcement follows a series of intense U.S. airstrikes on Houthi-controlled regions in Yemen, including the capital Sana’a, as well as Saada, Hajjah, Dhamar , Marib and al-Baydha.

In a statement, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree warned of additional attacks on U.S. naval forces, framing the strikes as retaliation for what the group termed “American aggression.” Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi reinforced this stance in a televised address, vowing to continue military operations and calling for widespread protests against the U.S. on Monday.  

The U.S. airstrikes, authorized by President Donald Trump, are anticipated to extend over several days, with administration officials signaling a more assertive approach toward the Iran-backed Houthis. Describing the campaign as “decisive and powerful,” Trump declared, “Your time has come,” according to Reuters.