Experts split as Trump halts Yemen bombing campaign after Houthi ceasefire deal

President Donald Trump’s decision to halt U.S. airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthi militants has been met with both praise and skepticism. The ceasefire, which marked the end of the 50-day bombing campaign known as “Operation Rough Rider,” was announced by Trump at the Oval Office. The move comes after the Houthis declared they no longer wanted to engage in conflict and would refrain from attacking ships.

Bard Al-busaidi, the foreign minister of Oman, confirmed that talks had led to a ceasefire agreement that would ensure the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait. The ceasefire was seen as a breakthrough in the ongoing conflict in Yemen.

Experts believe that the ceasefire was a result of deliberate diplomatic escalation, with the Trump administration linking Houthi aggression to Iran. The threat of consequences for Tehran if the attacks continued played a key role in bringing about the ceasefire.

The military campaign, which began in March following increased Houthi attacks on international shipping, involved precision strikes on Houthi infrastructure and weapons depots. The use of significant military assets, including bombers and aircraft carriers, combined with diplomatic pressure, appears to have been effective in prompting the ceasefire.

However, not all analysts view the Houthis as a significant threat, with some arguing that the attacks did not have a major impact on the U.S. economy. Critics of the campaign believe that the military intervention was unnecessary and costly, squandering taxpayer dollars.

While the ceasefire is being hailed as a strategic victory for the Trump administration, there are concerns about the long-term reliability of the Houthis. Some worry that the ceasefire could be a temporary pause to rebuild their capabilities and that a broader strategy is needed to address the conflict in Yemen.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding the ceasefire, the Trump administration is touting it as a major win that demonstrates the effectiveness of military power when combined with diplomatic efforts. Whether the ceasefire will hold or prove to be a temporary respite remains to be seen, but for now, the cessation of airstrikes marks a significant development in the conflict in Yemen.