In a statement, USCENTCOM stressed the importance of operational security, saying, “We are very deliberate in our operational approach, but will not reveal specifics about what we’ve done or what we will do.” The command emphasised that pressure on the Houthis would continue, declaring, “We will continue to increase the pressure and further disintegrate Houthi capabilities as long as they continue to impede freedom of navigation.”
Since the beginning of Operation Rough Rider, over 800 targets have been struck, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Houthi fighters and numerous senior Houthi leaders, including key missile and UAV officials. In addition, multiple command-and-control facilities, air defence systems, and advanced weapons manufacturing and storage sites have been destroyed.
24…7….#HouthisAreTerrorists pic.twitter.com/YI8EnrHM0R
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 15, 2025
USCENTCOM revealed that the destroyed storage sites housed advanced conventional weapons, such as anti-ship ballistic and cruise missiles, unmanned aerial systems, and uncrewed surface vessels used in attacks on international shipping lanes. Despite continued Houthi attacks, the effectiveness and frequency of these assaults have significantly declined, with ballistic missile launches dropping by 69% and attacks from one-way attack drones decreasing by 55%.
A notable target in the campaign was Ras Isa Port, whose destruction has impacted the Houthis’ ability to receive fuel, thus hampering their operational capabilities and limiting their revenue streams used for terror activities. The campaign has been supported by significant naval assets, including the Harry S. Truman and Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Groups.
24/7 operations for the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) against Iran-backed Houthis…#HouthisAreTerrorists pic.twitter.com/zFKb3oCiC4
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 18, 2025
USCENTCOM praised the professionalism of its forces, stating, “We are extremely proud of our well-trained and professional forces as they have effectively delivered precise and lethal strikes against Houthi military capabilities.” The command also highlighted the continued role of Iran in supporting the Houthis, warning that their ability to conduct attacks is sustained by Iranian backing.
Concluding the update, USCENTCOM affirmed its commitment to the mission, stating, “We will continue to ratchet up the pressure until the objective is met, which remains the restoration of freedom of navigation and American deterrence in the region.”
Source: U.S. Central Command.
