The Houthis have stated they will continue their military actions against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea regardless of U.S. and Iranian pressures. Jamal Amer, the Houthi Foreign Minister, insisted on their independence and right to defend themselves amidst escalating U.S. actions. With rising tensions in the region, the Houthis reaffirmed their focus on localized issues while threatening further retaliation against U.S. military provocations.
The Yemeni militant group, the Houthis, has asserted that they will not reduce their military actions against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea despite pressure from the United States or requests from Iran. Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer expressed these sentiments after the U.S. initiated a series of airstrikes in Houthi-controlled territories. The group had previously announced a resurgence of attacks on shipping routes to show support for Palestinians in Gaza.
Iranian officials conveyed a message to the Houthis to de-escalate tensions; however, Amer claimed that Iran’s influence does not dictate Houthi decisions, emphasizing their autonomy. He stated, “There will be no talk of any dialling down of operations before ending the aid blockade in Gaza… It cannot dictate things.” These statements were made from Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, amid ongoing U.S. attacks. Amer reiterated the Houthis’ right to defend themselves, forecasting escalated conflict.
Iran’s worries about being pulled into direct confrontations with the United States have grown, particularly following recent clashes. U.S. President Donald Trump holds Iran accountable for any Houthi attacks. The U.S. has intensified its sanctions against Iran, further straining relations. Amer remarked, “If they are hitting us from (US aircraft carrier USS Harry S.) Truman, we will retaliate by hitting Truman.” This rhetoric highlights the potential for retaliatory actions in the ongoing hostilities.
Despite Iran’s backing, the Houthis maintain their independence in decision-making and primarily focus on local issues amidst Yemen’s prolonged civil conflict. The group indicated a renewed focus on attacking Israeli vessels since failing to meet a deadline regarding Gaza’s aid blockade. With escalating violence in the region, including Israeli bombardments in Gaza, the Houthis have stated they seek to only target Israeli ships.
In light of recent U.S. airstrikes, which have resulted in civilian casualties, Amer mentioned that European Union countries have advised moderation, prompting the Houthis to clarify that their primary targets are Israeli interests. He noted that while Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have yet to intervene, they risk involvement should hostilities escalate. Amer concluded that the Houthis prefer to avoid conflict with Gulf states, provided they remain neutral.
The Houthis remain resolute in their military stance against Israeli shipping, defying both U.S. pressure and Iranian mediation efforts. The ongoing conflict marks a critical juncture, with potential escalations as the U.S. intensifies its military actions in Yemen. The Houthis’ declared independence from Iran’s influence emphasizes their focus on local objectives, despite regional tensions growing amid broader geopolitical struggles.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
