United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Wednesday that recent U.S. military airstrikes in Yemen have 'decimated' the leadership of the Houthi movement. The operation, aimed at reducing the group's ability to threaten international shipping lanes in the Red Sea, has significantly weakened their capabilities.

Hegseth described the strikes as part of a 'clear, limited mission executed with ruthlessness,' emphasizing that the objective is not to engage in a broader conflict. He stated that the United States will cease its military actions against the Houthis once the threat to American vessels is eliminated.

“We have demonstrated that any aggression against Americans will be met with decisive action,” Hegseth affirmed. He clarified that the mission is strictly focused on safeguarding maritime security and deterring further attacks, not on nation-building, regime change, or entering a ground war in the region.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Red Sea, where Houthi forces have launched several missile attacks threatening both military and commercial ships. The U.S. response, according to Hegseth, was necessary to uphold freedom of navigation and protect lives.

While the long-term impact of the strikes remains to be fully assessed, the Pentagon believes the operation has disrupted the Houthi command structure and sent a clear message regarding the consequences of targeting American interests.