In brief
The Pentagon's Operation Rough Rider is costing the U.S. $200 million within three weeks, with Houthi defenses proving resilient.
The U.S. military campaign in Yemen, known as Operation Rough Rider, has quickly escalated in scale and cost, as recent operations have burned through an estimated $200 million in munitions within just three weeks. President Trump touted the effectiveness of the strikes against Iranian-backed Houthi militants, claiming they have been "decimated" since the offensive began on March 15. However, sources within the Pentagon have disclosed to Congress and allies that the reality on the ground presents a starkly different picture. While U.S. aircraft have conducted extensive bombing runs, officials have privately acknowledged the limited success in significantly damaging the Houthis' underground stockpile of missiles, drones, and launchers. Despite heavier bombardments compared to prior operations under the Biden administration, the military faces growing challenges. Houthi forces have fortified their positions and defended against airstrikes, hindering efforts to neutralize missile attacks that threaten shipping routes in the Red Sea.In addition to the munitions expenditure, the U.S. has seen substantial operational costs stemming from the deployment of two aircraft carriers and additional military assets, including B-2 bombers, fighter jets, and advanced air defense systems like Patriot and THAAD units. These developments reflect a complex and costly military endeavor with uncertain outcomes, as the Pentagon grapples with the persistent resilience of Houthi forces.
