The deployment of a second American aircraft carrier to the Middle East marks an escalation in the United States’ military efforts against Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The USS Carl Vinson has joined the USS Harry S. Truman in the region, with both carriers participating in continuous air operations. This information was confirmed by US Central Command, which shared footage on social media showcasing the joint operations of fighter jets launching from both aircraft carriers.
The move to increase the U.S. naval presence comes as part of an ongoing air campaign against the Iran-backed Houthis that began in March. The initiative aims to address threats posed by the Houthis to commercial shipping and military vessels traversing the crucial waterways of the region. According to a US defense official, over 100 strikes have been conducted against Houthi-controlled targets, which include military installations, command centers, and weapons storage facilities, since mid-March.
Despite the significant U.S. military response, the Houthi rebels maintain a stronghold in Yemen, having controlled large territories since the onset of their conflict with a Saudi-led coalition supporting the internationally recognized government in 2015. In recent months, the Houthis have intensified their attacks against shipping lanes, citing solidarity with Palestinians amidst a devastating conflict in Gaza, further complicating maritime security.
The rebels’ targeting of vessels in key shipping routes, including the Suez Canal—a critical artery for global trade—has prompted concerns. The canal typically accommodates about 12% of global shipping traffic, and Houthi disruptions have led companies to reroute their vessels around the southern tip of Africa, significantly increasing logistics costs.
The U.S. strikes against the Houthis began under the Biden administration, underscoring a sustained commitment to countering the Iranian influence in the region. Notably, former President Donald Trump reiterated last week the intention to continue military operations against the Houthis until the threat to maritime activities is neutralized. As tensions remain high in the region, the deployment of these aircraft carriers reflects growing U.S. concern over geopolitical developments and the implications for international shipping.
