Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed on Saturday that the U.S. military launched new airstrikes on key areas they control. The attacks targeted both the capital, Sanaa, and the coastal city of Hodeida. According to the Houthis' media office, American forces carried out 13 airstrikes in Hodeida. These strikes hit an airport and a port along the Red Sea. The same office also confirmed that U.S. strikes hit locations in Sanaa. So far, no reports have come in about deaths or injuries from these latest airstrikes.

U.S. Central Command Confirms Ongoing Operations

The U.S. military’s Central Command, which handles operations in the Middle East, confirmed that it continues to strike Houthi targets in Yemen. These actions are part of an extended campaign.

Deadly Strike on Thursday Killed Dozens

Earlier, on Thursday, a U.S. airstrike targeted the Ras Isa port in Hodeida province. According to the health ministry run by the Houthis, 74 people died and 171 were injured in that single attack. This marked the deadliest strike in the U.S. bombing campaign against the Houthis so far.

UN Chief Raises Concern Over Violence

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres reacted with serious concern. His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said on Saturday, “The secretary-general recalls that international law, including international humanitarian law as applicable, must be respected at all times, and he appeals to all to respect and protect civilians as well as civilian infrastructure.” Guterres also condemned both the U.S. airstrikes and the Houthis’ missile and drone attacks on Israel and shipping lanes in the Red Sea.

U.S. Says No Harm Intended to Civilians

The U.S. Central Command declined to comment on whether civilians were killed. Instead, it issued a statement: “This strike was not intended to harm the people of Yemen.” The recent wave of U.S. strikes began in response to attacks by the Houthis. These rebels, backed by Iran, have been targeting international ships in the Red Sea. They have also launched attacks on Israel, a close U.S. ally. The Red Sea is a vital global trade route, and the U.S. views these threats seriously. Since the start of the U.S. bombing campaign on March 16, around 200 people have died, according to the Houthis’ health ministry.