Iran has denied aiding Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes, which resulted in significant casualties. The strikes were a response to Houthi attacks on international shipping. Tensions remain high, with the U.S. government advocating for aggressive measures against the rebels, while Iran emphasizes its lack of involvement in Houthi operations.
On Sunday, Iran categorically denied allegations of supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes against the group. The strikes reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 31 individuals, including women and children, with over 100 injured, according to the Houthi-run Health Ministry. The rebels stated a strike targeted residential areas in northern Saada province, claiming lives of four children and a woman, sharing visual evidence of the aftermath on Al-Masirah TV.
The Houthis have engaged in aggressive actions against international shipping in the Red Sea and executed missile and drone strikes targeting Israel, indicating support for the Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza. These operations ceased with a temporary ceasefire in Israel-Hamas hostilities in January; however, the Houthis threatened to reactivate their strikes following Israel’s recent humanitarian aid blockades.
U.S. officials have consistently accused Iran of supplying military resources to the Houthis, highlighted by U.S. Navy seizures of Iranian weaponry intended for the group, which leads Yemen’s capital Sanaa and northern territories. General Hossein Salami of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard denied involvement in Houthi tactics, stating that Iran does not influence the insurgent groups’ operational strategies.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi advised the U.S. to cease its military actions, asserting that the United States has no authority to direct Iran’s foreign relations. President Trump has threatened to take decisive military action until the Houthis discontinue their assaults on international shipping routes.
The recent airstrikes by the U.S. follow Houthi announcements to resume attacks on Israeli vessels in retaliation for continued Israeli blockades on Gaza. Previous assaults by the Houthis involved attacks on over 100 vessels, resulting in two ship sinkings and four fatalities among maritime crews. The American operation marked its inaugural military engagement with the Houthis during President Trump’s second term.
In summary, Iran has consistently rejected accusations of aiding the Houthi rebels amidst escalating U.S. military actions. The Houthi conflicts have led to significant casualties and threats to international maritime operations. The situation remains tense, with Trump advocating for rigorous military responses, while Iran asserts its non-involvement and calls for an end to U.S. strikes.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
