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Why did the US and UK strike Houthi targets in Yemen?

The US and UK have carried out air strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, saying they aim to deter attacks on ships passing through the Red Sea. There were 72 strikes in all, according to the Houthis' military spokesman.

The Houthis say they are not deterred by the attacks, but the US suggests the strikes have damaged the rebel group's military capability.

But how significant are the strikes - and how are the Houthis expected to respond?

Jane Kinninmont, Director of Policy and Impact at the European Leadership Network and a Middle East specialist explains.

(Photo: RAF Typhoons launched from RAF Akrotiri to conduct strikes against Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have been targeting merchant vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden with missiles and drones; Credit: MoD Crown Copyright via Getty Images)

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4 minutes