US defence chiefs launched missiles at Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Dramatic footage shows the airborne ranged weapon soaring from the warship, followed by thick plumes of smoke on March 31. Another clip shows fighter jets taking off from a US aircraft carrier.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that the operations aim to disrupt the activities of the militants.

On March 22, military officials also launched strikes on the Iranian-backed rebels. Three days earlier, warplanes had 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, March 15. The Houthi leadership reported that the number of casualties had risen to 58.

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.