In a significant turn in Middle East diplomacy, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. will stop bombing the Houthis in Yemen, citing a new ceasefire arrangement. The decision follows a mediated agreement brokered by Oman, under which the Iran-aligned Houthis have reportedly agreed to stop attacking the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab shipping routes—critical arteries for global trade.
The ceasefire deal marks a notable shift in Houthi strategy, which has been closely linked to ongoing tensions in Gaza since Israel launched its offensive against Hamas in October 2023. Trump revealed the decision during a joint appearance with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, stating that the Houthis had asked the U.S. to “please don’t bomb us anymore,” and had promised not to target American vessels.
Oman confirmed the terms of the agreement, saying both parties have committed to avoid targeting each other, especially in key maritime zones. The pact, however, does not include a halt to Houthi hostilities against Israel. Houthi leader Mahdi al-Mashat emphasised the group’s continued military attacks, warning Israelis to seek shelter or leave the region, according to Houthi-run media.
While Trump expressed optimism, saying the U.S. would “stop the bombing of the Houthis effective immediately,” Houthi political figures indicated they would monitor whether the U.S. truly ends its campaign. Mohammed Ali al-Houthi said the pause in “aggression” would be evaluated, signaling caution despite the announcement.
The U.S. air campaign, known as Operation Rough Rider, began in mid-March and has reportedly struck over 1,000 targets, killing hundreds of Houthi fighters and leaders. It was launched in response to Houthi missile and drone attacks that threatened international shipping and, more recently, Israeli territory.
Tensions peaked when a Houthi missile landed near Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, prompting Israeli retaliation with airstrikes on ports and airports in Yemen, including Hodeidah and Sanaa. Meanwhile, regional powers Qatar and Kuwait welcomed the ceasefire, expressing hope it would help safeguard navigation in the Red Sea.
The Biden administration had previously taken a joint approach with the U.K. in targeting Houthi infrastructure. It remains unclear whether Britain is part of the new ceasefire. Trump’s strategy, however, appears to pivot toward disengagement—at least with regard to direct U.S.–Houthi confrontation.
