CENTCOM: Over 800 Targets Destroyed, Hundreds of Houthi Fighters Killed in Sustained Counter-Terror Campaign
Since March 15, U.S. Central Command forces have conducted a sustained and precise campaign against Houthi terrorists in Yemen to restore freedom of navigation and reinforce regional deterrence. These operations are guided by detailed intelligence to maximize effectiveness against Houthi military capabilities while minimizing risks to civilians, CENTCOM said in a statement Monday.
To ensure operational security, CENTCOM deliberately limits disclosures regarding ongoing or future actions. However, since the start of Operation Rough Rider, U.S. forces have struck more than 800 targets, eliminating hundreds of Houthi fighters—including senior missile and UAV commanders—and degrading critical infrastructure. Strikes have destroyed command-and-control nodes, air defenses, weapons production facilities, and storage sites housing anti-ship missiles, drones, and unmanned vessels used in attacks on international shipping, the statement noted.
The results are clear: Houthi ballistic missile launches have dropped by 69%, and one-way drone attacks have decreased by 55%. Additionally, strikes on Ras Isa Port have crippled the Houthis’ ability to import fuel, disrupting both their operations and a key revenue stream for terrorist activities, CENTCOM said.
"This campaign has been executed by a powerful force posture, including the Harry S. Truman and Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Groups, whose precision and professionalism have delivered decisive effects," the statement emphasized.
CENTCOM also highlighted Iran’s role in enabling Houthi aggression, stating, "Without Tehran’s backing, these attacks would not be possible." The command reaffirmed its commitment to increasing pressure until objectives—restoring maritime security and upholding deterrence—are fully achieved.