U.S. Airstrikes kill Houthi Intelligence Chief in Yemen - Saudi media reports

Saudi-based news outlet Al-Hadath reports that a series of overnight U.S. airstrikes in Yemen may have resulted in the death of Abdul Nasser Al-Kamali, the intelligence chief of the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group. The strikes, which targeted multiple Houthi-controlled areas, are said to have hit the capital city of Sana’a, where Al-Kamali was reportedly killed. This city remains a stronghold for the Houthis, who have faced escalating American military action in recent weeks. The operation also extended to the neighboring Mar’ib province, a key region where the group holds significant influence.

A Houthi spokesperson took to Telegram to detail the scope of the attacks, claiming that U.S. warplanes executed eleven strikes in and around Sana’a, with an additional nine targeting Mar’ib. These assaults are part of a broader U.S. campaign aimed at curbing the Houthis’ persistent aggression, particularly their attacks on commercial and naval ships traversing the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The rebel group’s actions have disrupted vital maritime routes, prompting a robust response from Washington.

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has yet to confirm the strikes or Al-Kamali’s reported death, maintaining silence since the renewed offensive began on March 15. The Pentagon’s reticence contrasts with the assertive stance articulated by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a White House meeting on Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Hegseth emphasized that the U.S. intends to ramp up pressure on the Houthis, stating, “We are not going to relent, and it’s only going to be more unrelenting until the Houthis declare they will stop shooting at our ships.” His remarks underscore Washington’s commitment to neutralizing the threat posed by the Houthis, whose maritime assaults have drawn international concern. As the situation unfolds, the lack of official U.S. confirmation leaves room for speculation, while the strikes signal a sharp escalation in the conflict.