The US and its allies have begun a series of military strikes against the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, according to US media outlets. The New York Times newspaper and broadcaster CNN reported the strike, saying fighter jets attacked several targets. There was no immediate official confirmation from the US government. Since the outbreak of the Gaza war between Israel and the Islamist organization Hamas in October 2023, the Houthis have repeatedly attacked ships with an alleged Israeli connection in the Red Sea. Major shipping companies are increasingly avoiding the route. The Houthis …