Did the Houthi Group Really Shoot Down a US F-18 Fighter Jet?
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Synopsis
The recent claims by Yemen's Houthi group about downing a US F-18 fighter jet have raised significant questions about military operations in the region. This article delves into the implications of these events and the escalating tensions between the Houthis, the US, and Israel.
Key Takeaways
- The Houthi group claims to have downed a US F-18 fighter jet.
- The US Navy reported a jet lost due to operational mishaps.
- Houthi drone strikes targeted US carriers and Israeli cities.
- Tensions have risen amid resumed US airstrikes in Yemen.
- The situation remains fluid with conflicting reports.
Sanaa, May 1 (NationPress) - The Houthi movement in Yemen has claimed responsibility for the downing of a US F-18 fighter jet during a recent attack on the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. They have also initiated a series of drone strikes over the last 24 hours targeting another US carrier and cities in Israel.
In a televised address on the group’s al-Masirah TV channel, military spokesperson Yahya Sarea stated on Wednesday that the incident in the Red Sea resulted in the “downing of an F-18 fighter jet into the sea” and compelled the Truman to “retreat toward the Suez Canal.”
The US Navy reported on Monday that an F/A-18 Super Hornet was lost at sea after it fell overboard while being transferred aboard the USS Harry S. Truman, as cited by the Xinhua news agency.
A US official indicated that preliminary reports suggested the jet fell during a sharp turn by the carrier to avoid incoming Houthi fire.
Sarea further claimed that the group targeted the USS Carl Vinson and its accompanying warships in the Arabian Sea with drone attacks. “We targeted the US aircraft carrier, USS Carl Vinson, and its escorting warships using drones,” he added.
Additionally, Houthi forces have reportedly launched drone strikes on military installations in the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv and Ashkelon. These assertions have not been independently confirmed, and there has been no immediate response from the US or Israeli military.
Tensions between the Houthis and the US have intensified since Washington resumed airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen on March 15. The US has been attempting to deter the group from targeting Israeli interests, commercial vessels, and US naval assets in the region.
The Houthis, who maintain control over much of northern Yemen, have stated they would cease attacks on Israel and US forces if Israel ends its military campaign in Gaza and allows humanitarian aid to flow into the Palestinian territories.
The Truman has been operating in the Middle East for several months, recently having its deployment extended by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
It is one of two US aircraft carriers active in the area, where US forces have been conducting near-daily strikes against the Houthis using fighter jets, bombers, ships, and drones.
The Navy confirmed, “The F/A-18E was actively under tow in the hangar bay when the move crew lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft and tow tractor were lost overboard.” The jet was part of Strike Fighter Squadron 136.
Point of View
I recognize the complexity of the situation involving the Houthis, the US, and Israel. The claims made by the Houthis should be approached with caution, given the volatile nature of warfare and propaganda. Our commitment is to provide accurate, unbiased coverage of these developments, ensuring our audience is informed with reliable information.
NationPress
24/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Houthi group claim?
The Houthi group claimed they shot down a US F-18 fighter jet during an attack on the USS Harry S. Truman.
What is the US response to these claims?
The US Navy reported that an F/A-18 Super Hornet was lost at sea due to an accident, not due to Houthi fire.
Are the Houthi claims verified?
The claims made by the Houthis have not been independently verified as of now.
What has escalated tensions between the Houthis and the US?
Tensions have escalated since the US resumed airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen on March 15.
What do the Houthis demand to stop attacks?
The Houthis stated they would cease attacks on Israel and US forces if Israel ends its military campaign in Gaza.
