US airstrikes have pounded Houthi targets in Yemen for months, targeting oil refineries, airports and missile sites. President Trump vowed to use “overwhelming force” until the US achieves its goal of forcing the Houthis out of power.
However, the Houthi resistance remains resilient, with analysts saying that airstrikes alone cannot compel them to back down. The group sees resilience as a form of strength and is driven to prove they are not easily deterred.
The US is unlikely to achieve success through airstrikes alone, according to regional diplomatic sources and analysts. Instead, a ground offensive may be necessary to dislodge the Houthis from power. Regional diplomats have suggested that preparations are underway for a coordinated military operation involving Saudi Arabia and Yemeni forces.
The Iran link also remains crucial in understanding US policy towards the Houthis. President Trump has repeatedly linked the campaign against the Houthis to Iran, threatening dire consequences for any attacks by the Yemeni militants.
However, it is unclear whether Tehran can simply order the Houhis to stop firing. The Iranian leadership offers moral support to their allies in Yemen but does not want to be seen providing further military support at this time.
The US has accelerated deliveries of anti-missile defenses to Saudi Arabia and may soon launch strikes on hardened targets in Yemen. However, it remains unclear whether these actions will lead to a breakthrough or further escalation.
Analysts say that the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the resilience of the Houthi resistance. The group is known for its “honey badger” mentality, which makes them resistant to conventional military tactics.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/06/middleeast/us-airstrikes-yemen-houthis-may-be-relishing-them-intl/index.html