The United States has unleashed a barrage of intense air assaults on Houthi positions in Yemen, citing the group’s persistent attacks on vessels traversing the Red Sea. Former President Donald Trump declared the offensive, describing the Houthis as “Iran-backed criminals” whose missile strikes on American assets and merchant ships have inflicted billions in damage and endangered global lives.

At least 31 people were reported dead and over 100 wounded, according to the Houthi-controlled health authorities. Blasts echoed across Sanaa and Saada—strongholds of the rebel group—with smoke plumes seen near the capital’s airport, which contains military installations.

Trump issued an uncompromising message, pledging to unleash “unrelenting deadly force” until the Houthis halt their aggression. He warned, “A storm of fire like never before will rain upon you.”

Undeterred, the Houthis vowed to retaliate fiercely, reaffirming their assaults are a show of solidarity with Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas war. Since late 2023, they have executed nearly 200 strikes on commercial ships, forcing global shipping lines to reroute away from the strategic Red Sea passage.

The Red Sea, a crucial trade artery linking Asia and Europe, has seen traffic plummet as carriers avoid Houthi threats, instead navigating longer routes around Africa.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated Washington’s hardline stance in talks with Russia’s Sergei Lavrov, who advocated for a ceasefire and peaceful dialogue.

Trump also lashed out at Iran’s support of the rebels and accused Joe Biden’s previous administration of exhibiting weakness.