United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen were "intended to disrupt and degrade the Houthis’ capabilities to endanger mariners and threaten global trade."
In an official statement, Austin said that joint strikes targeted "the Houthis' unmanned aerial vehicle, ballistic and cruise missile, and coastal radar and air surveillance capabilities." Additionally, he noted that the operation conducted by the US, the UK, and supported by Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, "sends a clear message to the Houthis that they will bear further costs if they do not end their illegal attacks."
CNN reported, citing a senior defense official, that Austin, who is currently in hospital as he recovers from recent cancer surgery, ordered and monitored the action in Yemen.