Iran has condemned US airstrikes against the Houthis in Yemen, stating it constitutes a crime. Iranian officials warned of decisive responses to any aggression on Iranian territory. The Houthis claim to have retaliated against US forces following these strikes. US President Trump aims to exert pressure on Iran while also inviting negotiations regarding its nuclear program.
On Monday, Iran condemned the recent US airstrikes against the Houthis in Yemen, labeling them as “a crime”. Iranian officials, including Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei, declared that they would respond “decisively” to any future attacks on Iranian territory, amid warnings from US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding Iran’s support for the Houthis and its relevance to US national interests.
The Houthis have launched numerous offensives targeting shipping in the Red Sea since the onset of the Gaza conflict on October 7, 2023. In response to these threats, US President Donald Trump conducted extensive military operations against the Iranian-supported group, marking the most significant military engagement in the Middle East during his presidency. Following the strikes, reports indicated that at least 53 individuals, including five children, were killed and 98 others were injured.
The Houthis claimed responsibility for previously attacking the USS Harry Truman twice, asserting these actions were retaliation for the US strikes. In their communications, they announced they had launched 18 missiles and a drone at the carrier without substantiating evidence. The representative cited these attacks as a response to the ongoing aggression from the United States.
As the situation escalates, the US is intensifying sanctions on Iran while pushing for negotiations regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. President Trump conveyed a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, expressing a desire to engage in discussions. However, Baghaei noted that Iran would review the letter and respond through proper channels, emphasizing the absence of substantial new proposals in Trump’s communication.
Despite the US’s overtures, Iranian leadership, including Ayatollah Khamenei, has ruled out negotiations under duress, indicating a steadfast approach to their foreign policy amidst escalating tensions in the region.
In conclusion, Iran’s strong condemnation of the US strikes in Yemen underscores rising tensions in the region. Iranian officials emphasize their commitment to defending national integrity and security, while the Houthis’ retaliatory actions reflect the ongoing conflict’s complexity. With President Trump’s administration pursuing a dual strategy of military action and potential diplomacy, the situation remains precarious as both sides navigate a landscape rife with hostility and potential for further escalation.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
