The Houthis in Yemen have confirmed they will not cease their actions against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, disregarding both US military pressure and Iranian appeals. Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer stated their commitment to defend themselves despite escalated US strikes, while asserting their independence from Iranian influence. Amid the ongoing Gaza conflict, they emphasize their focus on supporting Palestinian interests, and the potential for escalation remains a significant concern.
Yemen’s Houthis have asserted their intention to continue their actions against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, dismissing both US military pressure and appeals from Iran. Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer elaborated to Reuters that recent US strikes on Houthi-controlled areas would not alter their course of action, which they resumed to support Palestinians amid ongoing tensions in Gaza.
Following the US military’s active involvement, two unnamed Iranian officials indicated that Iran had urged the Houthis to moderate their actions. Despite this, Amer insisted that the Houthis make their own decisions and are not bound by Iranian directives. He emphasized the necessity of addressing humanitarian situations in Gaza before any negotiations could occur.
US President Donald Trump has made it clear that he holds Iran accountable for Houthi actions, heightening tensions in the region. Amer reiterated the Houthis’ right to defend themselves in response to US military actions, indicating that escalation appears unavoidable under current circumstances. He highlighted ongoing threats and the possibility of reciprocal attacks in response to US aggression.
While the Houthis maintain an alignment with Iran, they emphasize their autonomy in decision-making. Experts suggest that the group is primarily driven by domestic political objectives. The Houthis resumed maritime attacks as a reaction to what they perceive as Israeli provocations and delays in lifting the blockade of Gaza, which has severe humanitarian implications.
The Houthis have conducted over one hundred attacks targeting shipping since November 2023, claiming these actions are in solidarity with the Palestinian cause. They temporarily halted operations during a ceasefire in January but re-engaged following Israel’s blockade initiated on 2 March. Amer underscored that the Houthis target only Israeli vessels, asserting their right to defend against perceived US escalation.
The Houthis have also received advice from some European Union members to refrain from escalation, and they have reassured them that their actions are focused solely on Israeli shipping. Moreover, Amer noted that Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have not intervened militarily despite their alliance with the recognized Yemeni government. He cautioned that Gulf states could find themselves embroiled in the conflict if they decide to engage militarily, but he acknowledged their current neutrality is appreciated by the Houthis.
In conclusion, the Houthis remain steadfast in their commitment to act against Israeli shipping despite external pressures from the United States and Iran. The situation in Yemen continues to escalate, with concerns over US military involvement and regional implications for Gulf states if the conflict intensifies. The Houthis assert their autonomy in decision-making and prioritize their right to self-defense amidst ongoing hostilities in the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
