Yemen’s Houthis refuse to cease operations against Israeli shipping despite US strikes and Iranian requests. Houthi Foreign Minister emphasizes their right to defend against perceived threats. Tensions between the US and Iran raise concerns for regional stability, while the Houthis aim to maintain focus on Palestinian support amid the conflict.
The Houthis of Yemen have declared their intent to continue their actions against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, asserting that neither US military pressure nor appeals from Iran will lead them to cease operations. In a recent statement, Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer confirmed that the group remains resolute amid ongoing US strikes in Houthi-controlled regions, which have claimed numerous lives.
Following a resumption of attacks on shipping, the Houthis claim their actions are a show of support for Palestinians in Gaza, particularly in light of the recent escalation regarding the aid blockade. Amer mentioned that while Iran has communicated messages to de-escalate, Iran does not dictate Houthi decisions; the group operates independently, focusing on their domestic stability and support base despite their alignment with Tehran.
The escalating tensions between the US and Iran have raised concerns over a potential conflict affecting their allies. US President Donald Trump asserted that Iran will be held responsible for Houthi actions, reinforcing his administration’s stringent policies against the nation since re-entering office. Amer emphasized that the Houthis retain their right to self-defense and will respond to attacks on them.
The Houthis have conducted over 100 targeted attacks against shipping since November 2023 in what they describe as a show of solidarity with Palestinians, but they temporarily halted these actions when a ceasefire was enacted earlier in the year. Amer indicated that they had received counsel from some European Union nations urging restraint, yet he reaffirmed the group’s focus is on targeting Israeli vessels alone, not on escalating their conflict with other nations.
Amidst the heightened hostility, Amer conveyed that Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have refrained from military intervention, valuing neutrality to avoid becoming collateral damage. He stated that the Houthis would escalate their actions should Gulf states engage militarily against them, but would remain reserved if they maintain their current stance of non-interference. The dynamics reflect the complexity of the ongoing conflict in Yemen, with broader regional implications lying on the horizon.
In summary, the Houthis maintain their aggressive stance in the Red Sea despite US military actions and Iranian advisories to temper their approach. With their declared commitment to defending Palestinian interests, they assert their independence in decision-making, amidst a geopolitical backdrop of US-Iran tensions. The imperative for self-defense remains a core principle for the Houthis in light of potential threats from the US and regional powers, although they express a willingness to avoid escalation if neutrality is practiced by Gulf states.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
