US Airstrikes in Yemen Cost $1 Billion in Three Weeks, Fail to Weaken Resistance: Report

The United States has spent nearly $1 billion in just three weeks on its military campaign in Yemen, but the operation has delivered minimal impact on the Ansarallah-led Yemeni Armed Forces (YAF), according to multiple defense sources cited in US media reports.

Launched on March 15, the US offensive has relied heavily on high-cost precision weapons, including Tomahawk missiles, JASSMs, and B-2 bomber strikes, alongside the deployment of two aircraft carriers and advanced fighter jets in the region. Despite this, Yemeni forces have continued their attacks on US warships and Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea, highlighting the campaign’s limited strategic gains.

Yemen Continues Offensive Despite US Bombing

The YAF has successfully shot down at least 17 US MQ-9 Reaper drones, each valued at over $30 million, and continues to launch missiles and drones targeting key maritime assets. On Friday, YAF spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Saree confirmed that cruise missiles and drones were launched at the USS Harry S. Truman and its support fleet in the Red Sea.

Saree stated, We will not abandon our moral and humanitarian responsibility toward Palestine.”

Civilian Toll Rises

According to Yemen’s Health Ministry, US airstrikes have killed 61 civilians and injured 139 others since March 15. Human rights groups and aid agencies have expressed alarm at the growing humanitarian crisis and the continued use of force in populated areas.

Pentagon Faces Pressure Over Costs and Results

US defense officials, speaking anonymously, told media that while some targets have been hit, Yemen’s military capabilities remain largely intact. The underground storage and reinforced launch sites have protected large portions of YAF’s missile and drone arsenal.

One official noted: “They still have the capacity to target shipping and bring down US drones. Meanwhile, we’re depleting key munitions and exhausting deployment resources.”

Congressional Scrutiny and Pacific Security Concerns

The high cost of the Yemen operation has raised concerns in Congress, where lawmakers warn the offensive could undermine US readiness for other global threats. Pentagon insiders also fear depleting long-range precision munitions needed for potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific, especially with rising tensions involving China.

Shift in Strike Policy

The Biden-era requirement for White House approval of airstrikes has been dropped. Commanders now have greater autonomy to conduct operations, following a Trump administration-style approach. This shift has led to expanded targeting of Yemeni leadership and military infrastructure.