US forces carried out large airstrikes against rebel targets in Yemen’s Hodeidah province, officials said. The strikes hit missile and drone facilities used in Red Sea attacks.

The operation marks a major escalation of the US campaign against the Houthi rebels. The group has targeted commercial ships for months, disrupting trade.

Pentagon officials said the strikes were aimed at degrading the rebels’ ability to launch attacks. They described the action as defensive and proportionate.

The Houthis condemned the strikes and vowed to continue their operations. The group says its attacks are in support of Palestinians in Gaza.

The Red Sea crisis has forced ships to take longer routes around Africa. Shipping costs have risen, adding to global trade pressures. The strikes are among the largest carried out this year against rebel positions. Aid groups warned that civilians in the area face growing risks. The US says it will continue operations until Red Sea shipping is fully safe again.