The Washington Post quoted the former US ambassador to Yemen, Gerald Feierstein, as saying that the US military campaign against the Houthi group was unable to deter them.

Gerald Feierstein said, “Their (the Houthis’) ability to replace everything we destroy cannot be hindered, and our ability to prevent materials coming into the country is minimal.”

He added: “Their capabilities have definitely increased” since they began their campaign. He added: "As long as they have the incentive to continue these attacks, they have proven that they have the ability to do so."

The newspaper pointed out that the Houthis are continuing their attacks against ships in the Arabian and Red Seas, noting that the recent escalation in Houthi activity confirms their ability to pose a sustainable threat.