The US has stressed that the latest air strikes on Yemen reflect a growing international consensus on the need to counter Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, reports Al Jazeera.
While the strikes were carried out by the US and UK militaries, Washington says the operation received assistance from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands and New Zealand.
“The Houthis’ now more than 30 attacks on commercial vessels and naval vessels since mid-November constitute an international challenge,” the US Department of Defence said in a statement.
“Recognising the broad consensus of the international community, our coalition of likeminded countries committed to upholding the rules-based order has continued to grow. We remain committed to protecting freedom of navigation and international commerce and holding the Houthis accountable for their illegal and unjustifiable attacks on commercial shipping and naval vessels.”
The Pentagon said that it aims to “de-escalate tensions and restore stability” in the Red Sea, but it will not hesitate to “continue to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world’s most critical waterways in the face of continued threats”.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
