PM: Bombing sends strong signal to Houthi rebels

UK and US forces have bombed military facilities used by Houthi rebels in Yemen, with Rishi Sunak saying Britain sent a "strong signal" that the militants' attacks in the Red Sea cannot be carried out with "impunity".

The airstrikes have sparked concerns over a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

Experts have warned there is "certainly a risk of wider conflict in the region" and that promised retaliation by the Iran-backed group could push Western powers into engaging beyond a targeted and contained strikes.

The Prime Minister insisted the US and UK acted "in self-defence" and that allies would not hesitate to ensure the safety of commercial shipping.

Speaking during a visit to Ukraine, he told broadcasters there has been a significant increase in the number of Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea which put lives at risk, disrupted the global economy and destabilised the region.

"Now it's clear that that type of behaviour can't carry on.

"That's why we joined with allies in issuing very public condemnation of this behaviour.