Iran has denied assistance to Yemen’s Houthi rebels after U.S. airstrikes claimed 31 lives. Trump warned of accountability while the Houthis threatened renewed attacks against Israel. Iran asserts it does not influence Houthi operations as tensions in the region escalate amidst ongoing conflicts.
Iran has reiterated its denial of providing support to Yemen’s Houthi rebels following a series of U.S. airstrikes targeting the group. President Donald Trump stated that Iran would be held “fully accountable” for the Houthis’ actions amidst the escalating tensions. The Houthi-run Health Ministry reported at least 31 casualties, including women and children, from the strikes in northern Saada province, alongside significant injuries to over 100 other individuals.
The Houthis have engaged in multiple attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and launched missiles towards Israel, claiming solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing conflict with Hamas. These aggressions ceased temporarily following a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. However, the Houthis threatened to resume their operations in light of the humanitarian blockade imposed by Israel.
The U.S. has consistently accused Iran of supplying military resources to the Houthis, citing seized Iranian weaponry intended for the group, which governs Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. General Hossein Salami, leader of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, insisted that Iran does not influence the operational strategies of its allied militant groups, as conveyed through state-run media.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for the cessation of U.S. strikes on social media, asserting Iran’s autonomy in foreign policy decisions. In a warning issued by Trump, he declared the use of “overwhelming lethal force” to deter further Houthi aggression against shipping routes. The recent U.S. airstrikes occurred shortly after the Houthis announced plans to escalate their attacks on Israeli vessels, following Israel’s blockade actions in Gaza.
Since the onset of conflict in October 2023, the Houthis had targeted over 100 vessels, contributing to significant maritime hazards. The recent U.S. airstrikes marked the first military action against the Houthis under the current Trump administration, following past coalition operations involving the U.S., Israel, and Britain.
The conflict surrounding Iran’s alleged support for Yemen’s Houthi rebels continues to escalate, particularly following recent U.S. airstrikes that resulted in numerous casualties. As tensions rise, the Iranian government’s denials of involvement, coupled with warnings from President Trump, underscore the complexities of the regional dynamics at play. Additionally, the Houthi rebels’ activities against international shipping reflect ongoing instability and the potential for further conflict as they react to perceived threats and blockades imposed by Israel.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
