US B-2 Stealth Bombers Strike Houthi Bunkers in Yemen

In a pre-dawn operation on Thursday, US long-range B-2 stealth bombers targeted underground bunkers used by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, The Associated Press reports, citing US officials.

The strikes, which hit locations around the capital Sanaa and the Houthi stronghold of Saada, were aimed at “five hardened underground weapons storage locations,” according to US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

The strikes, which mark the first confirmed use of B-2 bombers against the Houthis, come amidst a heightened regional conflict following the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The Houthis, who have been waging a years-long war against a Saudi-led coalition, have recently intensified attacks on ships in the Red Sea, targeting vessels with missiles and drones. They claim these actions are a response to the conflict in Gaza.

While US officials maintain that the B-2 strikes were solely focused on Houthi military infrastructure, some analysts view them as a warning to Iran, the Houthis’ primary benefactor. The B-2, capable of carrying the Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bomb designed to destroy hardened targets, is considered the primary aircraft for potential strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities.

Initial assessments suggest no civilian casualties from the strikes. However, the Houthis’ al-Masirah satellite news channel reported airstrikes in Sanaa and Saada, offering no immediate information on damages or casualties.

The Red Sea has become a volatile battleground since the Houthis began their campaign against shipping. The conflict has significantly impacted global trade, with the Houthis targeting over 80 merchant vessels since October 2023.

The Houthis have also launched missiles targeting Israel and shot down several US MQ-9 Reaper drones. They have threatened further attacks in response to Israel’s ground invasion of Lebanon and the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

The B-2, a highly sophisticated and expensive aircraft, is rarely used in combat due to its cost and maintenance requirements.