US Deploys B-2 Stealth Bombers for Major Bombing Raids on Houthi Targets in Yemen

US B-2 Stealth Bombers Strike Houthi Underground Bunkers

In the early hours of Thursday, the US deployed B-2 stealth bombers to carry out significant bombing raids on Houthi targets in Yemen. The attack, which targeted underground bunkers used by the Houthis, marked the first known instance of B-2 stealth jets being used in combat over Yemen since the Red Sea shipping war began over a year ago. The Associated Press suggested that the attack served as a warning to Iran. While the extent of the damage remains unclear, the strike is believed to be the first use of the B-2 in combat in years and the first time it has targeted sites in Yemen.

Potential Israeli Strikes on Iran Expected to Target Underground Bunkers

Potential Israeli strikes on Iran are also expected to target underground bunkers hiding ballistic missiles, possibly using US-supplied munitions such as bunker-busting ordinance. Commenting on the recent action over Yemen, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin hinted at this possibility. Austin described the attack as a unique demonstration of the US's ability to target facilities that adversaries attempt to keep out of reach, regardless of how deeply buried, hardened, or fortified they are. He confirmed that the targets successfully struck included "five hardened underground weapons storage locations in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen."

New Attack Sets Stage for Further Military Action Against Iran

The B-2 would be deployed in any American attack on hardened Iranian nuclear facilities like Natanz or Fordo, as it is the only aircraft in service that can drop the GBU-57, also known as the "Massive Ordnance Penetrator." However, the Pentagon's actions against the Houthis may be seen as somewhat late. The Houthis have held Red Sea shipping essentially hostage for over a year with an unrelenting campaign that has targeted over 80 merchant vessels with drones and missiles. US warships have also been directly targeted, in what has been described as the largest US Navy battle at sea since World War II. There has been ongoing speculation that US military ships have been hit, but that the Pentagon has concealed this. The B-2s that struck Yemen reportedly flew all the way from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri.

Prior US and Israeli Air Offensives Against Houthis Have Not Curbed Their Capabilities

While there have been previous rounds of US and Israeli air offensives against the Houthis, these have not significantly curbed Houthi capabilities. Instead, they seem to have strengthened their resolve to punish Israel and its allies in relation to the Gaza war. Independent journalist Michael Tracey noted that for 10 months, the US has been bombing Yemen on behalf of Israel without Congressional authorization. He pointed out that Congress has actively refused to take action and that this issue is not being addressed in the presidential campaign.

Bottom Line

The deployment of B-2 stealth bombers to strike Houthi targets in Yemen marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The implications of this move, both for the situation in Yemen and for potential future action against Iran, are yet to be fully understood. What are your thoughts on this development? Share this article with your friends and join the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, delivered to your inbox every day at 6pm.