RAF Houthi blitz 2 'is in self defence'

 »PM pledges more strikes if attacks go on

- CHRIS HUGHES and ASHLEY COWBURN

 » Brit bases on high alert for backlash

THE RAF’s second bombing blitz on Houthi rebels was self-defence, Rishi Sunak said yesterday as British bases were put on high alert for a backlash. 

Four UK Typhoons joined US forces to smash targets in Yemen on Monday night after attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden continued.

Prime Minister Mr Sunak vowed Britain will not hesitate to launch further air strikes against the Iranbacked Houthis unless they stopped.

Mr Sunak said: “We are not seeking a confrontation. We urge the Houthis and those who enable them to stop these illegal and unacceptable attacks.

“But, if necessary, the United Kingdom will not hesitate to respond again in self defence. We cannot stand by and allow these attacks to go unchallenged. Inaction is also a choice.”