Iran has denied allegations of aiding Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes that killed 31 individuals. The Houthis have targeted shipping in the Red Sea, asserting support for Palestinians in Gaza. President Trump has pledged strong military responses to Houthi threats, while Iran’s military leaders assert independence from Houthis’ operational decisions.
On Sunday, Iran reiterated its denial of providing assistance to Yemen’s Houthi rebels amidst a backdrop of increased U.S. military action and strong warnings from President Donald Trump. The recent U.S. airstrikes reportedly resulted in the fatalities of at least 31 individuals, including women and children, with over 100 injuries reported. The Houthi-controlled Health Ministry indicated that a particular airstrike targeted civilian homes in Saada province, leading to the deaths of four children and one woman.
The Houthi faction has been engaged in persistent attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and has utilized missiles and drones against Israel, justified as support for Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict. Following a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the Houthis signaled a potential resumption of their assaults, especially in reaction to Israel’s suspension of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The U.S. has long accused Iran of funding the Houthis, evidenced by the seizure of Iranian weaponry destined for the group, which governs Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. In response to these claims, Gen. Hossein Salami, leader of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, claimed that Iran does not dictate the operational strategies of its allied militia groups in the region.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi vehemently opposed U.S. airstrikes, challenging Washington’s influence over Iranian foreign policy. President Trump reaffirmed his stance on the Houthi attacks, threatening to exert “overwhelming lethal force” to curtail their activities in key maritime areas. Previously, both U.S. and allied forces, including Israel and Britain, have targeted Houthi-controlled areas; however, the latest strikes were executed exclusively by the United States, marking the first under Trump’s second term.
This article highlights the tensions between Iran, the Houthis, and the United States amid recent military escalations. Iran continues to deny accusations of supporting the Houthis, while the U.S. maintains its stance against their hostility towards shipping routes. The cycle of attacks in the region remains influenced by the broader conflict involving Israel and Palestinian factions, evidencing a complex interrelation of geopolitical interests.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
