The United States has conducted a series of airstrikes in Yemen, resulting in 31 fatalities, as part of an operation targeting Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The strikes, aimed at defending American interests and ensuring freedom of navigation, were announced by the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) on March 15.

CENTCOM shared images on social media showing fighter jets taking off from an aircraft carrier and a bomb destroying a building compound in Yemen. In a statement, the military said, “On March 15, U.S. Central Command initiated precision strikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets across Yemen to defend American interests, deter adversaries, and restore freedom of navigation.”

U.S. President Donald Trump also addressed the military action on his Truth Social platform, issuing a stern warning to the Houthi rebels and Iran. “To all Houthi terrorists, YOUR TIME IS UP, AND YOUR ATTACKS MUST STOP, STARTING TODAY. IF THEY DON’T, HELL WILL RAIN DOWN UPON YOU LIKE NOTHING YOU HAVE EVER SEEN BEFORE!” Trump declared.

He further cautioned Iran, stating, “Support for the Houthi terrorists must end IMMEDIATELY! Do NOT threaten the American People, their President, who has received one of the largest mandates in Presidential History, or worldwide shipping lanes. If you do, BEWARE, because America will hold you fully accountable, and we won’t be nice about it!”

Trump justified the strikes as a response to the Houthi rebels disrupting shipping in the Red Sea and threatening American interests. He also criticized his predecessor, Joe Biden, for failing to take decisive action against the Houthis.

The Houthi rebels, however, have vowed to retaliate. In a statement broadcast on Al-Masirah TV, they declared, “Our Yemeni armed forces are fully prepared to confront escalation with escalation.” The group condemned the strikes as “criminal brutality” and accused the U.S. and its allies of aggression.

The Yemeni health ministry confirmed that 20 people were killed and at least nine others were injured in the strikes. The Houthi Ansarollah website denounced the attacks as a “US-British aggression” and reiterated their commitment to continuing their campaign to obstruct Red Sea shipping until Israel lifts its blockade of aid to Palestinians.

Earlier this month, the U.S. reclassified the Houthis as a “foreign terrorist organization,” citing 174 attacks on American warships and 145 attacks on commercial vessels since 2023. The U.S. has been a staunch ally of Israel, and the reclassification underscores the escalating tensions in the region.

The Houthis had announced on Tuesday their intention to resume their campaign to disrupt shipping in the Red Sea, aiming to exert pressure on Israel and its allies. The latest U.S. military action marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, raising concerns about further violence and instability in the region.

Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has been admitted to Apollo Hospital in Chennai after experiencing chest pain, according to reports. The 58-year-old musician was taken to the hospital early in the morning and is currently undergoing medical examinations, including an ECG and echocardiogram. Hospital sources suggest that he may also need an angiogram to further assess his condition.

Recent public appearances

Despite his health concerns, Rahman was actively engaged in musical events recently. Last month, he performed alongside international artist Ed Sheeran during a concert in Chennai. Additionally, just a week later, he attended the music launch of his upcoming film “Chaava.”

Ex-wife Saira Banu was also hospitalized recently

In a related development, Rahman’s ex-wife, Saira Banu, was recently hospitalized due to a medical emergency and underwent surgery. Her lawyer, Vandana Shah, shared an official statement expressing gratitude towards those who supported her during this challenging time. Saira Banu also requested privacy while she focuses on her recovery.

Saira Banu and AR Rahman had announced their separation in November 2024, citing “significant emotional strain” after nearly 29 years of marriage.

Fans send wishes for Rahman’s recovery

As news of Rahman’s hospitalization spread, fans and well-wishers took to social media to express their concern and pray for his speedy recovery. The hospital has not yet released an official statement regarding his current condition.

Lauding Tamil as a “sweet” language, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated on Saturday, March 15, that it stands as a significant asset to both the nation and the world. At an event near Sriperumbudur, he emphasized the importance of all Indian languages, noting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently worked to ensure that every language receives the respect it deserves.

During the inauguration of Zetwerk Electronics’ manufacturing facility, Vaishnaw expressed his gratitude for having a professor named Sadagopan at IIT Kanpur, who introduced him to the richness of the Tamil language. He began his speech with a traditional greeting of ‘Vanakkam’ and shared his limited knowledge of Tamil phrases, stating, “Tamil is a very, very sweet language… I know only three words: Vanakkam, Eppadi Irukeenga (How are you), and Nandri (Thank you).”

He reflected on how Sadagopan enriched his understanding of Tamil culture, which he described as ancient and deeply rooted. “This is one of our country’s assets and also one of the world’s treasures. We should take pride in it and celebrate all Indian languages. This is the spirit that our Prime Minister embodies, ensuring that each language receives its rightful recognition and exposure,” he remarked.

To illustrate his point, Vaishnaw mentioned the Telecom and Data Protection Laws, highlighting the Prime Minister’s encouragement to offer legal notices in all Indian languages, not just in English. He reiterated the goal of fostering unity and understanding among diverse cultures and peoples within India.

“We must aim for a unified objective of strengthening our nation and striving to become the third largest economy,” he concluded, expressing his gratitude in Tamil with “rombha rombha nandri” (many, many thanks).

His remarks come in the context of ongoing language controversies in Tamil Nadu, where the ruling DMK party has accused the central government of enforcing Hindi through the National Education Policy, allegations that the Union government has refuted.