The U.S. and Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen are escalating tensions after U.S. airstrikes aimed at deterring Houthi attacks on key shipping lanes. Secretary of State Marco Rubio pledged continued military action until the Houthis can no longer threaten vessel passage. Trump advocated for “overwhelming lethal force” and accountability for Iran. The situation emphasizes the risks of worsening maritime conflict amid ongoing regional tensions.
The United States and Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen are both escalating tensions following recent U.S. airstrikes aimed at deterring Houthi assaults on vital shipping lanes. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the U.S. will not allow the Houthis to dictate which vessels may pass through these crucial waterways. He stated, “It will go on until they no longer have the capability to do that,” indicating a long-term commitment to countering Houthi threats.
President Donald Trump stated he would employ “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis halt their aggressions. He also asserted that Iran would be held “fully accountable” for supporting the rebels. The Houthis justify their naval assaults on international shipping as solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, having attacked two vessels recently.
Following a lull in hostilities when a ceasefire was established in January, the Houthis have vowed to renew their attacks against Israeli vessels due to humanitarian aid cuts to Gaza. The U.S. strikes reportedly resulted in 31 casualties in Yemen, including women and children, marking a significant escalation in the military campaign against the Houthis since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October.
National security adviser Michael Waltz confirmed that the strikes targeted high-ranking Houthi leaders, although he did not provide specifics. Rubio noted that Houthis have engaged the U.S. Navy and commercial shipping numerous times over the past 18 months with advanced weaponry, raising concerns about escalating naval combat. Moreover, Iran responded to Trump’s statements, denying any involvement in the Houthi operations, thereby refuting claims of direct support for the militant group.
In summary, the U.S. and Houthi rebels have intensified their confrontation following recent airstrikes targeting the latter’s capabilities. The Houthis express a readiness to retaliate against any U.S. military actions, while the U.S. administration maintains a firm stance against Houthi assaults in shipping lanes. The ongoing conflict highlights the complex interplay of regional and international dynamics involving Iran and Yemen.
Original Source: www.channel3000.com
