US fighter jets took off in the Red Sea to strike Houthi rebels.

Dramatic footage shows a warplane taking off from an aircraft carrier on March 20. US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that the video clip demonstrates the precision and power of the Red Rippers, a key naval squadron involved in the operation.

On March 19, fighter jets shot down Houthi drones with laser-guided missiles.

President Donald Trump cited the group's attacks on shipping in the Red Sea as the reason for the military action.

Trump said: 'Funded by Iran, the Houthi thugs have fired missiles at US aircraft and targeted our troops and allies.

'These relentless assaults have cost the U.S. and world economy many billions of dollars while, at the same time, putting innocent lives at risk.'

The US initiated what it described as a 'decisive and powerful' wave of airstrikes on Houthi targets on Saturday. The Houthi leadership reported that the number of casualties had risen to 53, including five children.

CENTCOM stated that it initiated a series of operations, including precision strikes against Houthi targets across Yemen, to defend American interests, deter adversaries, and ensure freedom of navigation.