Iran denies supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels after U.S. airstrikes, which resulted in civilian casualties. Tensions rise as Houthis threaten renewed attacks on shipping. U.S. sanctions and military actions continue against Houthi forces and Iranian influence in the region.
Iran has categorically denied supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels following a series of U.S. airstrikes against them. This denial occurred in the aftermath of President Donald Trump asserting that Iran would be held “fully accountable” for the rebels’ actions, during a significant escalation in conflict. The Houthi-run Health Ministry reported 31 fatalities, which tragically included women and children, along with injuries exceeding 100. The Houthis asserted that a targeted airstrike affected civilian homes in northern Saada province, resulting in additional casualties.
The Houthis have persistently aimed their attacks at international maritime traffic in the Red Sea and have launched missiles and drones towards Israel, justifying these actions as solidarity with the Palestinians amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. A temporary ceasefire was established in Gaza earlier in January, which had halted the Houthi assaults; however, threats to renew these attacks were made following Israel’s humanitarian blockade in Gaza.
The United States and its allies have long accused Iran of providing military assistance to the Houthis. The U.S. Navy has intercepted shipments, including missile components intended for the militant organization, which governs Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. Gen. Hossein Salami, leader of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, stated that Iran does not dictate the strategic or operational decisions of its allied militant groups, as reported by state media.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the U.S. airstrikes and asserted that the United States cannot control Iran’s foreign policy. Trump previously committed to employing “overwhelming lethal force” against the Houthis if they continued their aggression towards maritime routes. This series of airstrikes ensued shortly after the Houthis announced intentions to target Israeli vessels in retaliation for a blockade on Gaza.
Historically, the Houthis have targeted over 100 merchant ships with missile attacks and drone strikes, resulting in two vessels sunk and several sailors killed. Although U.S., Israeli, and British forces have attacked Houthi positions in Yemen prior, this latest assault exclusively involved U.S. military action. It marked the initial strikes against the Houthis during Trump’s second term in office.
In summary, Iran firmly rejects accusations of supplying military support to the Houthis amidst heightened U.S. military action against them. The situation continues to escalate, with the potential for renewed Houthi aggression towards Israel and international shipping, following a fragile ceasefire. The U.S. remains vigilant, having previously intercepted Iranian weapons meant for the Houthis, while regional tensions persist despite diplomatic challenges.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
