The United States has launched a new, intensified wave of airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels under President Donald Trump, killing at least 53 people over the weekend, including several children, according to local medical sources. The campaign marks a significant escalation in Washington’s military response to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and signals a broader strategy to increase pressure on Iran, the Houthis’ chief backer.

The strikes targeted Houthi military infrastructure across northern Yemen, with U.S. officials stating the attacks were in retaliation for what they called a sustained campaign of “piracy, violence, and terrorism” by the Iran-aligned group. Trump wrote on Truth Social that the U.S. would “use overwhelming lethal force until we have achieved our objective,” and emphasized the strategic importance of protecting global shipping through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

Between November 2023 and January 2024, the Houthis launched over 100 drone and missile attacks on commercial shipping lanes, sinking two vessels and killing four international crew members. The group claimed its campaign was in support of Palestinians in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas war, a stance that earned it renewed popularity in parts of the Arab world despite longstanding criticism over its internal crackdowns on dissent and humanitarian workers.

Airstrikes against the Houthis were first launched under President Joe Biden in early 2024, in coordination with the United Kingdom. By December, the U.S. and its partners had conducted over 260 strikes. However, the Biden administration was reportedly cautious about avoiding civilian casualties and reigniting Yemen’s broader civil war.

In contrast, the Trump administration appears more aggressive, with military officials suggesting a broader target list and fewer limitations. This weekend’s deadly attacks suggest a willingness to expand the campaign, as the U.S. seeks to cripple the Houthis’ ability to disrupt maritime traffic and challenge U.S. regional influence.

No immediate comment was issued by Iran or the Houthis in response to the latest wave of U.S. strikes. The situation continues to evolve as humanitarian groups warn of worsening conditions on the ground.