President Trump warns of holding Iran accountable for Houthi attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, post-U.S. strikes in Yemen. He claims Iran influences the Houthis with resources. The U.S. seeks to secure international shipping routes disrupted by the Houthis, although analysts believe shipping companies will require time before returning to the area.
President Trump has asserted that Iran will be held accountable for any further attacks by Houthi militants on shipping in the Red Sea. He indicated on Truth Social that Iran is the primary influence over the Houthis, providing them with arms, finances, and intelligence support.
In his statement, Trump warned, “Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon, from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN, and IRAN will be held responsible, and suffer the consequences, and those consequences will be dire!” – Donald Trump.
This declaration follows significant U.S. military actions against Houthi forces, resulting in the deaths of at least 53 individuals and injuries to nearly 100 in and around Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. Following the onset of the Gaza conflict in late 2023, the Houthis escalated their targeting of military and commercial vessels in the Red Sea.
In early 2024, the Biden administration formed a coalition of approximately 20 nations to ensure the security of the Red Sea through measures including retaliatory strikes against militants. The Houthis ceased their attacks on ships in January following a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas but have since threatened to resume attacks due to humanitarian aid restrictions in Gaza.
The recent U.S. strikes aim to restore safety in international shipping lanes within the Red Sea, where frequent Houthi assaults had compelled vessels to divert towards the Cape of Good Hope, leading to increased transit times and costs, thereby impacting global supply chains.
However, Jonathan Roach, an analyst at Braemar ACM Shipbroking, suggests that even a cessation of hostilities may not promptly lead to a return of shipping vessels. He notes that shipping companies require certainty before taking the risk of entering the area.
“So, it’s probably going to take a good three to six months of no hostilities to container ships before they’ll actually risk it,” he remarked.
In summary, President Trump’s firm stance on Iran’s responsibility for Houthi attacks emphasizes the U.S. commitment to safeguarding international shipping in the Red Sea. The recent military strikes against Houthi forces aim to secure vital maritime routes, although experts suggest a cautious approach on the part of shipping companies may delay a swift return to normalcy. Clarity and assurances regarding security in the region will be essential for the maritime industry’s recovery.
Original Source: www.iowapublicradio.org
