Yemen’s Houthi rebels have given Israel four days to remove its blockade on Gaza aid, threatening to resume naval actions if not complied with. The rebels have previously launched extensive attacks in solidarity with Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas conflict, which has affected global shipping routes. Hamas has welcomed the Houthis’ announcement as a show of support against Israel.
On Friday, the leader of Yemen’s Houthi rebels announced a four-day ultimatum for Israel to lift its blockade on humanitarian aid entering Gaza. Should Israel fail to comply, the Houthis indicated they would recommence their naval operations against Israel, which had diminished following a ceasefire earlier this year.
The Iran-aligned group had previously conducted over 100 attacks against shipping since November 2023, claiming these were acts of solidarity with the Palestinians amidst Israel’s conflict with Hamas. Their actions included sinking vessels, capturing one, and resulting in the deaths of at least four sailors, disrupting global shipping routes.
The Houthis stated, “We will give a deadline for four days. This deadline is for the [Gaza ceasefire] mediators for their efforts.” They emphasized that if Israel continued blocking humanitarian aid after four days, they would escalate naval operations against Israel.
On March 2, Israel prohibited the entry of aid trucks into Gaza, alleging that Hamas was appropriating the aid intended for the Palestinian populace. Hamas responded positively to the Houthi announcement, recognizing it as an extension of their ongoing support during the prolonged conflict in Gaza.
Additionally, the Houthis reiterated their commitment to take armed action if the United States and Israel attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza, reflecting their broader geopolitical concerns in the region.
In summary, the Houthis have issued a four-day deadline for Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza aid, threatening to resume naval operations should there be non-compliance. Their history of aggression towards shipping in solidarity with Palestinians, alongside Hamas’s support for the Houthis, underscores the complex dynamics at play in this ongoing conflict. This situation persists amid warnings of escalated military action if forced displacements of Palestinians occur.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
