On Thursday, American forces in the Middle East launched a strike on a key oil facility in western Yemen, marking the first publicly confirmed attack in several weeks as part of the ongoing air campaign against the Houthi rebels. According to a statement from U.S. Central Command, the strike aimed to cut off a fuel source for the Iran-backed Houthis and prevent them from profiting through illicit means.

The targeted site, Ras Isa, is a major oil terminal and one of three main ports on Yemen’s western coast, crucial for the country's imports and humanitarian aid. Central Command claimed the Houthis had been using it to stockpile fuel and generate illegal income. "The purpose of these strikes was to weaken the Houthis’ economic power," the statement said.

Since mid-March, the U.S. has been carrying out a sustained bombing campaign against the Houthis, warning it would continue until attacks on Red Sea commercial shipping—an essential global trade route—come to an end. Although the Pentagon initially provided updates on the campaign, it has since stopped releasing details on strike counts, targets, or efforts to restore maritime security. This contrasts with previous operations, where Central Command regularly issued public briefings.

Commentator Pete Hegseth recently noted that while the Houthis won’t admit the extent of their losses, U.S. officials are aware of the damage inflicted, particularly to the group’s leadership—though he declined to provide specifics. What remains evident is the significant U.S. military buildup in the region. Additional carrier strike groups, air defense systems, bombers, and fighter jets have been deployed, both to support operations and send a signal to Iran, which is now entering direct nuclear talks with Washington. Details on the assets used in Thursday’s strike and any resulting casualties were not disclosed by Central Command.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from U.S Navy.