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US Strikes on Houthi Forces: Extension of "Truman" Mission and a Second Aircraft Carrier Deployment Soon
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The increase in US military presence in the Middle East reflects rising regional tensions, especially after recent Houthi attacks
A US official told Al Arabiya English that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has decided to extend the deployment of the USS Harry Truman aircraft carrier in the Middle East, a move aimed at bolstering US military presence in the region.
The official added that the United States plans to send a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East in the coming weeks, as regional tensions escalate.
These developments coincide with reports of violent explosions south of the city of Hodeidah, following the Houthi spokesperson's announcement that their forces had carried out a drone strike against US naval vessels escorting the Truman aircraft carrier.
Washington had begun airstrikes last Saturday targeting Houthi positions, confirming that the goal was to secure maritime navigation in vital regional waterways.
These are the largest military operations carried out by the United States in the Middle East since President Donald Trump took office in January.
Trump issued stern warnings, threatening to "completely eliminate the Houthis," while holding Iran accountable for any further attacks carried out by the group, warning of significant consequences.
Since the outbreak of the Gaza war in late 2023, the Houthis have escalated their operations in the Red Sea, launching more than 100 attacks targeting commercial vessels, which has caused major disruptions to international trade. This escalation has prompted the US military to launch intensive operations to intercept missile attacks, part of an expensive military campaign.
