The US has launched a “decisive and powerful” wave of air strikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen, President Donald Trump has said, citing the armed group’s attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.

“Funded by Iran, the Houthi thugs have fired missiles at US aircraft, and targeted our Troops and Allies,” Trump wrote on his Truth social platform, adding this had cost “billions of dollars” and put lives at risk.

The Houthi-run health ministry said at least nine had been killed and nine injured in the strikes.

The group – which began targeting shipping in response to Israel’s invasion of Gaza – told Arab media that it would continue its attacks.