U.S. Airstrikes Against Houthis: Challenges Ahead in Yemen

A recent breach of communications from the Trump administration reveals plans for U.S. airstrikes aimed at countering Houthi attacks on shipping lanes in Yemen, though experts warn this approach may not lead to success without ground operations.

In March 2025, a leaked group chat among Trump administration officials has shed light on the U.S. military's strategy in Yemen, specifically targeting the Iran-backed Houthi militia. The officials discussed recent airstrikes aimed at deterring Houthi assaults on maritime traffic in the Red Sea and reopening critical shipping routes to the Suez Canal. National Security Adviser Michael Waltz emphasized the necessity for the U.S. to play a pivotal role in this endeavor.

However, experts in Middle Eastern affairs are cautioning that the Houthis may not be easily defeated through aerial campaigns alone. Historically, relying solely on air power has led to protracted conflicts without decisive victories, and many believe that ground operations may become essential to effectively counter Houthi forces. The ongoing challenges are compounded by the reluctance of major shipping companies to operate in the Red Sea, altering their routes to maintain logistical efficiency despite increased costs.

James R. Holmes, a noted military strategist, referenced past conflicts, indicating that air campaigns typically require ground support to achieve lasting success. The 1991 operation to liberate Kuwait serves as a historical example where aerial assaults initiated the campaign, but a subsequent land invasion proved critical for victory.

As the U.S. seeks to navigate its military objectives in a complex regional landscape, both the efficacy of its airstrikes and the broader implications for U.S. naval strategies remain uncertain. The discourse surrounding the inherent difficulties of defeating the Houthis echoes broader geopolitical concerns about stability and security in the Middle East.