US Defence Secretary says he is “proud” of Yemen strikes
The US Defence Secretary has stated he is “quite proud” of the recent US military operations against Houthi rebels in Yemen, The National reported on March 28th.
Pete Hegseth made the comments whilst visiting the Philippines, as the Trump administration has experienced a strong negative reaction over the unintentional inclusion of The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, in a group chat, where the Pentagon chief disclosed US military intentions in Yemen.
At a press conference alongside his Filipino counterpart, Gilberto Teodoro, Hegseth defended the military campaign, emphasizing its precision and impact. “I’m quite proud of what our forces in Centcom did on that initial and very effective and devastating strikes in the ongoing campaign we are undertaking,” he said.
The US military has conducted multiple airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen. They claimed to be in response to recent drone and missile attacks on US naval assets in the Red Sea. Hegseth reiterated the US commitment to protecting its interests and allies.
The Houthi rebels, meanwhile, have linked their recent attacks to broader regional tensions. According to Al Jazeera on March 26th, Houthi forces targeted US warships in the Red Sea and launched drones at Israeli military sites, citing support for Palestinians in Gaza.
“Despite the devastation, many Yemenis remain resolute in their support for Gaza, believing that their sacrifices are necessary to pressure Israel into halting its military campaign and lifting its blockade”, said Al Jazeera’s Mohammed al-Attab.
The National, Al Jaazera
