Iran has denied supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels after U.S. airstrikes killed at least 31. The Houthis targeted international shipping and expressed solidarity with Palestinians. Tensions escalate as Trump warns Iran of accountability, while Iran maintains it does not influence the Houthis. The U.S. strikes mark a significant point in the conflict, reflecting ongoing regional instability.
On Sunday, Iran reiterated its denial of any assistance to Yemen’s Houthi rebels following a series of U.S. airstrikes aimed at them, amidst warnings from President Donald Trump that Tehran would face accountability for the rebels’ activities. The Houthi-controlled Health Ministry reported at least 31 fatalities, including women and children, and over 100 injured from the strikes, with specific incidents mentioned in northern Saada province.
The Houthi rebels have engaged in repeated attacks on international shipping within the Red Sea and have launched missiles and drones at Israel. They have characterized these actions as expressions of solidarity with the Palestinian people, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. A ceasefire in January had temporarily halted these attacks, although the Houthis threatened to resume them after humanitarian aid to Gaza was restricted.
The United States, along with other nations, has consistently accused Iran of supplying military support to the Houthis. The U.S. Navy has seized Iranian-made weaponry purportedly headed for the Houthis, who maintain control over Sanaa, Yemen’s capital, and the northern regions. General Hossein Salami, leader of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, has denied any Iranian involvement in the Houthis’ operations, asserting that Iran does not dictate the policies of allied militant groups across the region.
In response to the U.S. airstrikes, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for an end to these strikes, emphasizing that the United States cannot assert control over Iran’s foreign policy. President Trump previously stated he would employ “overwhelming lethal force” to compel the Houthis to cease their maritime attacks.
The recent airstrikes were conducted solely by the U.S., marking the first engagement against the Houthis during Trump’s second term, and followed the Houthis’ announcement of an intention to target Israeli vessels once again, reflecting an escalation in hostilities since the onset of the latest Israel-Hamas war.
In summary, Iran has consistently denied supporting the Houthi rebels amid escalating tensions following U.S. airstrikes. The Houthis have been engaged in maritime attacks, which they claim are in solidarity with Palestine. The situation remains fluid, with the U.S. vowing to hold Iran accountable, while Iran insists on its non-involvement in Houthi operations. This ongoing conflict underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
