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Pentagon Deploys "Ghost" to Strike Houthis Underground
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The use of B-2 bombers in recent strikes highlights the U.S. administration's determination to undermine Houthi military capabilities, while sending a clear signal to Tehran about the potential conseq
The United States launched strikes on Wednesday night against Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen, using B-2 Spirit stealth aircraft, in a notable escalation.
The Pentagon reported that the attacks targeted weapons storage facilities, utilizing the only aircraft capable of destroying Iranian nuclear facilities, in an implicit message to Tehran.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated in an official release: "U.S. forces targeted underground facilities belonging to the Houthis, containing various weapon components of the type used by the Houthis against civilian and military ships across the region."
The Pentagon added that the operation included "strikes on 5 weapons storage sites in Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen... Assessments are ongoing and do not indicate civilian casualties."
Austin clarified that President Joe Biden authorized the operation, which involved B-2 bombers, distinguished by their large size compared to previously used fighter jets, and their ability to carry a larger bomb payload.
ABC News quoted a defense official saying: "U.S. Central Command forces conducted several airstrikes on a number of Houthi weapons storage facilities within Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen."
On Thursday morning, Houthi-affiliated media reported U.S.-British airstrikes targeting areas north and south of Sanaa, as well as the Kahlan and Al-Ayla areas east of Saada city.
B-2 bombers are characterized by their ability to deliver conventional and nuclear weapons, and to direct massive firepower quickly to any point in the world.
They are uniquely capable of penetrating the most advanced air defense systems undetected, making them an effective strategic tool. It is the only aircraft capable of carrying bunker-busting bombs that can penetrate fortifications to a depth of 100 meters.
The use of these advanced bombers indicates a notable U.S. escalation in the confrontation with the Houthis and carries an implicit message to Iran about Washington's military capabilities. This development comes in the context of escalating tensions in the region, amid fears of an expanding conflict in the Middle East.
Levant-Agencies
