The U.S. may target Iranian interests in Yemen as part of its military campaign against Houthis. Recent strikes have raised casualties and concerns over regional instability. Oman has warned against escalation, while human rights activists criticize the U.S. actions. The Houthis continue their attacks on Israel-bound vessels, promising responses to U.S. strikes.
The United States may target Iranian interests in Yemen amid its continued military operations against Tehran-backed Houthi insurgents, as warned by President Donald Trump’s National Security Adviser, Mike Waltz. Washington has called on Tehran to cease its support for the Houthis, emphasizing that the recent U.S. strikes aimed to hinder the rebels’ assaults on critical shipping routes in the Red Sea and Israel.
Recent U.S. military actions, which reportedly resulted in over 50 fatalities including civilians, have led to increased oil prices and heightened concerns regarding regional escalation. Oman has expressed profound concern about these strikes, emphasizing the potential humanitarian and broader implications for Yemen. The sultanate’s foreign ministry stated, “The escalation exacerbates the suffering of the Yemeni people and increases instability in the region.”
The human rights organization DAWN has condemned the U.S. intervention, asserting that President Trump has intensified the conflict in Yemen and breached international law. Sarah Leah Whitson, DAWN’s executive director, criticized Trump, claiming, “President Trump has broken his promise to the American people…inviting a Houthi counterattack on a U.S. warship.”
The Houthis have actively targeted vessels heading toward Israel and have resumed rocket attacks in a display of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. After a pause in January due to a ceasefire agreement, the rebels announced they would continue their offensive until the blockade on Gaza is lifted.
Waltz indicated that potential U.S. strikes would not only focus on Houthi facilities but also directly on Iranian-linked targets. Possible actions might include attacking Iranian vessels near Yemen, military trainers, and facilities aiding the Houthis, which he claims threaten the global economy.
The recent hostilities have raised concerns over the impact on global trade, particularly due to threats to shipping routes. While the Houthis have claimed responsibility for an attack on a U.S. carrier in the Red Sea, they warned that any escalation would be reciprocated. U.S. strikes initiated by Trump could persist for several days or weeks, with Waltz confirming, “We will hold not only Houthis accountable but also their Iranian backers.”
Iran has refuted allegations of support for the Houthis and has threatened retaliation should it be attacked. The region, characterized by its complex geopolitical landscape, has witnessed substantial pressure on Iran and its affiliates, particularly after recent setbacks suffered by entities like Hezbollah in Lebanon and Iran-backed factions in Iraq. Additionally, the U.S. government has suggested potential military action against Iran concerning its nuclear endeavors, should diplomatic negotiations falter.
In summary, the United States may escalate its military engagement in Yemen by targeting Iranian interests linked to the Houthi rebels, following recent strikes that have resulted in significant casualties. Concerns over regional stability and humanitarian impacts have been expressed by several parties, including Oman and human rights groups. As tensions rise, the possibility of retaliatory actions from both the Houthis and Iran indicates a volatile situation that could further destabilize the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
