Yemen: China National Radio (CNR) highlighted the Yemeni Armed Forces' targeting of the American aircraft carrier Eisenhower. The CNR, one of China's most influential national media institutions, reported on the significant public interest generated by this event.

According to the CNR, Yemeni Armed Forces spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Sare'e confirmed that the Yemeni forces launched two attacks on the Eisenhower in the Red Sea within 24 hours, while the US military denied these claims.

To prove there was no attack, Captain George Hill of Eisenhower posted a video on social media showing a plane landing on the carrier, asserting its normal operation. However, internet users later pointed out that the video was old, originally posted in March. This raises the question: Can the Yemeni Armed Forces really hit an American aircraft carrier, and what message are they sending by openly challenging this symbol of American dominance?

Recent developments include the US Department of Defense releasing photos of the Eisenhower dated June 7, showing the carrier's rear, planes on board, and crew members at work. Despite the US military's repeated denials, these attempts to address the situation have only fueled public debate.

Analyst Jin Yi Nan noted that the US has been on the defensive from start to finish. While Yemen's military capabilities are not strong, their claim of successfully striking an American carrier twice in 24 hours is notable, mainly due to their strategic use of terrain.

Carriers can showcase their strength in open oceans, but their maneuverability is limited in narrow passages like the Bab al-Mandab Strait. This limitation, coupled with the Yemeni forces' timely attacks—first during a plane's takeoff from the carrier to strike Hodeidah, and second during the carrier's northward movement for supplies—demonstrates Yemen's tactical advantage.

Jin Yi Nan suggests that while the Yemeni weapons are relatively primitive and likely intercepted by the US military, the American forces' hesitation and retreat indicate possible minor damage. The Eisenhower, originally heading to Asia, redirected north to Jeddah, possibly for repairs, explaining the week's delay before releasing photos. This sequence of events suggests American confusion.

Strategic analyst Li Yu stated that in response to strong US denials, the leader of Yemen's Ansarullah recently said the attacks embarrassed and frustrated the Americans, damaging their prestige. He warned that future attacks on Eisenhower would be more impactful and effective.

Li Yu highlighted that since 2024, the Yemeni Armed Forces have projected a robust image, attracting public attention with actions like "blockading waterways" and supporting Palestine by striking Israeli cities. Ansarullah has become a formidable force in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, now recognized globally as fierce actors.

Jin Yi Nan added that Ansarullah's evolution into a force daring enough to challenge an American carrier exemplifies the Chinese proverb, "He who digs a pit for his brother falls into it," emphasizing the irony and unexpected nature of this development for the US.

Li Yu concluded that Yemen's attack on Eisenhower signifies the shattering of the myth of invincibility surrounding American carrier groups. The psychological impact on the US military outweighs any physical damage, strategically undermining American dominance.

The US previously threatened nuclear retaliation for any attack on its carriers, a deterrent many feared. However, with Yemen's direct assault on the carrier—whether successful or not—the question arises: Will the US wage a nuclear war against Yemen? Clearly, this is not feasible, meaning the illusion of unchallengeable dominance has burst. This is the significant implication of the Yemeni Armed Forces' attack on the American aircraft carrier.

Translated by Almasirah English website