Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
Recent U.S. military movements in Yemen have signaled a noticeable escalation, raising questions about whether Washington is preparing for a ground offensive following a series of intense airstrikes targeting Houthi positions.
A report published by the Russian newspaper Nezavisimaya Gazeta noted that the Pentagon has intensified its strikes against the Houthis in recent weeks, targeting military facilities and missile bases in various areas, including the outskirts of the capital, Sana’a.
According to U.S. officials, this move is part of a broader strategy that began in March, and the strikes are reportedly more aggressive than those previously carried out by the Biden administration.
Intelligence sources indicated that the U.S. airstrikes have succeeded in eliminating several high-ranking Houthi leaders and destroying facilities used for weapons manufacturing. However, other reports, such as one published by The New York Times, suggest that the destruction of the Houthis’ missile and drone arsenals remains limited—despite operation costs exceeding $200 million.
In parallel, speculation is mounting about a possible U.S. ground intervention, especially after Houthi officials accused Washington of planning to seize coastal cities, particularly the strategic port of Hodeidah.
Some media outlets have reported that the U.S. intends to deploy troops to Yemen, potentially with Saudi support. Still, many analysts consider a full-scale ground war unlikely, suggesting that Washington will instead rely on airstrikes and special operations forces.
One of the major challenges any military operation would face, experts say, is the Houthis’ extensive network of underground tunnels, designed for both military operations and to shelter the group’s leadership. Moreover, any significant U.S. action could be perceived as a move against Iran, the Houthis’ main backer, further heightening regional tensions.
This leaves the central question unanswered: Is Washington gearing up for a full-blown military escalation, or is it merely aiming to neutralize Houthi threats through targeted strikes without engaging in a costly confrontation? Only time will tell.
