The U.S. conducted airstrikes in Yemen, killing multiple Houthi leaders and warning Iran to stop its support for the group. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz emphasized military actions are a response to ongoing attacks on shipping. Trump warned the Houthis of severe consequences if they do not cease their aggression, reinforcing the U.S. stance on Iran’s nuclear capability as well.
The White House reported that U.S. airstrikes in Yemen resulted in the deaths of multiple Houthi leaders, signaling that Iran has been “put on notice” to cease its support for the rebel group and its attacks on maritime activities in the Red Sea. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz confirmed that these military actions specifically targeted key Houthi figures. He emphasized that Iran must understand that aggressive actions will not be tolerated.
The airstrikes, which occurred on a Saturday, marked the first military action by the U.S. against the Houthis since President Donald Trump resumed office, leading to the deaths of at least 31 individuals and injuring 101, as reported by the Yemeni health ministry. The Houthis have been in control of significant portions of Yemen for over a decade and oppose both the U.S. and Israel, claiming their attacks on shipping are a reaction to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The group has carried out numerous drone and missile strikes targeting vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since the conflict escalated in October 2023. The Pentagon noted that U.S. warships have faced 174 attacks, while commercial ships experienced 145 assaults during this timeframe, significantly impacting a vital shipping route that handles approximately 12% of global trade.
In a recent post on Truth Social, President Trump warned Houthi leaders, insisting that their assaults must halt immediately or face dire consequences. Previously, he had reached out to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, proposing nuclear discussions, while stating that military action could be considered should negotiations fail. Tehran reacted negatively, asserting that it would not engage in talks under threats.
Waltz reiterated the U.S. stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, declaring that all options remain available to ensure they do not acquire a nuclear weapon. He stated that Iran must either relinquish its nuclear aspirations verifiably or face significant repercussions, underscoring the necessity of preventing the Iranian regime from wielding nuclear power.
In summary, the recent U.S. airstrikes have successfully targeted and eliminated several Houthi leaders, while simultaneously sending a clear message to Iran regarding its support for these rebels and its nuclear ambitions. The ongoing conflict in Yemen continues to strain maritime security in critical shipping lanes. With the U.S. reaffirming its commitment to counter Iranian threats, the region remains under heightened tension as diplomatic approaches to nuclear discussions are complicated by aggression and hostility.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
