Iraqi PM Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani calls for dialogue following US airstrikes on Yemen’s Houthis, which killed 53. During talks with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, both emphasized security cooperation against IS. Houthi leader threatens to target US ships in retaliation for ongoing strikes, escalating tensions in the region.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani has called for de-escalation and dialogue as essential strategies for resolving crises in the sensitive Middle Eastern region. His remarks come in response to heightened tensions following US military strikes on Yemen’s Houthi group, which resulted in significant casualties. Al-Sudani emphasized that this approach reflects Iraq’s long-standing position towards addressing regional challenges and affirmed Iraq’s commitment to this principle.
During a conversation with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, al-Sudani discussed the ongoing military operations in Yemen. He indicated that the United States would persist with operations as long as the Houthi group continues its aggression towards US forces and disrupts navigation in the Red Sea. Both parties acknowledged the necessity of ongoing security cooperation within the US-led coalition aimed at combating the Islamic State (IS) group, reiterating Iraq’s commitment to protecting international coalition advisors.
The discussions also touched on the regional security landscape, particularly the situation in Syria, with both sides affirming their resolve to prevent IS from posing threats in the area. The US Defense Secretary reiterated that military action against Yemen’s Houthis would continue until they cease their attacks on shipping. The recent airstrikes are the largest US military operation in the Middle East since former President Donald Trump took office.
Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi declared that his fighters would target US vessels in the Red Sea in retaliation for ongoing US strikes. He warned of continued escalation if US attacks persist. The Houthis’ leadership characterized the strikes as a “war crime,” and Moscow has called on Washington to halt its military actions. Additionally, the Houthis claimed to have engaged US naval assets with ballistic missiles and drones in response to the airstrikes, though they provided no evidence for these assertions.
In summary, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani advocates for dialogue and de-escalation amidst increasing regional tensions following US airstrikes in Yemen. Both he and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussed the need for continued military operations against the Houthis until they cease their aggressions. The Houthi leadership has threatened further action against US forces, raising concerns about the potential for escalating conflict in the region.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
