Scotland’s first minister, Humza Yousaf, has called for the UK parliament to be recalled over the air strikes in Yemen, stating that there are “significant questions” to be asked and answered about military action. The UK and US strikes against Houthi rebel sites have been described by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as “necessary and proportionate” to protect global shipping in the Red Sea.
The targeted strikes on military facilities took place overnight, and in response, Houthi officials have warned that the UK and US will “pay a heavy price.” The US-led strikes are the first against the Houthi militia since it began targeting international shipping in the Red Sea last year.
More than 60 targets at 16 locations used by the Houthi rebels in Yemen were struck, the US Air Force said, adding that the Houthis control much of Yemen and say they are supporting Hamas by targeting ships heading to Israel. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said Royal Air Force Typhoons conducted two precision strikes on Houthi sites, including an airfield used to launch drones and missiles over the Red Sea and another site used to launch attack drones.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said the strikes against the Iranian-backed group, who he accuses of threatening UK ships, was in “self-defence.” “Despite the repeated warnings from the international community, the Houthis have continued to carry out attacks in the Red Sea, including against UK and US warships just this week,” the Prime Minister said. “This cannot stand. The United Kingdom will always stand up for freedom of navigation and the free flow of trade.”
In conclusion, the strikes against the Houthi rebels have prompted questions from Scotland’s first minister, Humza Yousaf, about the appropriate use and timing of military intervention. At the same time, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has argued that the strikes were necessary to protect global shipping in the Red Sea. The situation in Yemen remains unstable, with Houthi officials warning of repercussions for the UK and US strikes, and the international community watching with concern
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