The US is deploying its second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, part of a growing effort to counter Iranian-backed Houthi forces in Yemen. The move comes as strikes against the group continue, with over 50 targets hit in recent weeks.
Pentagon officials have confirmed that Pete Hegseth extended the deployment of the Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier and plans to order a second carrier to the region. The objective is to degrade Houthi military capabilities and deter further attacks on international shipping lanes.
The Trump administration’s approach marks a significant shift in military strategy compared to its predecessor, with increased emphasis on precision airstrikes targeting key Houthi infrastructure and leadership.
“We have certainly increased manufacturing capacity, but the demand for munitions remains very high,” warned Gen. Joseph Votel, former commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM).
The deployment is part of a broader effort to curb Houthi aggression, with officials saying that force is necessary to protect US interests. However, questions remain about how long this mission will go on and whether the Houthis will succumb to pressure.
The move has been met with skepticism by some, who argue that a prolonged campaign could strain US weapons stockpiles. “No campaign ends with only combat operations,” cautioned Dana Stroul, former top Pentagon official for the Middle East in the Biden administration.
Source: https://english.alarabiya.net/News/united-states/2025/03/21/us-preps-increased-military-force-posture-in-mideast-amid-houthi-strikes