On January 24, the US military conducted airstrikes in Iraq and Yemen targeting Iran-backed militias and Houthi rebels.

These strikes aimed to degrade their capabilities for rocket and missile attacks that have disrupted global shipping and raised Middle East destabilization concerns.

Two individuals were killed in the strikes, deemed 'proportionate' by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

In Yemen, strikes focused on Houthi anti-ship missiles and facilities posing a threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships.

In Iraq, the strikes targeted facilities used by militias affiliated with Iran.

The Pentagon asserts that the strikes have weakened the rebels' arsenal and deterred further aggression.

Iraq's Prime Minister criticized the airstrikes, citing a violation of sovereignty.

The US is prepared to take further action to protect its personnel and facilities and seeks China's help in pressuring Iran.

The ultimate goal of these actions is to ensure the safety and security of the Red Sea for international shipping and mariners.