The Houthis have declared they will persist in military actions against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, disregarding U.S. pressure and Iranian calls for de-escalation. Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer stressed their right to self-defense, linking military actions to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The situation remains tense as the U.S. increases military involvement and Iran’s influence persists.
Yemen’s Houthis have asserted that they will not reduce their military actions against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, even amid escalating U.S. military pressure and Iranian calls for de-escalation. Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer made these remarks following a series of U.S. airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas, which claimed numerous lives. He noted that any reduction in military operations is contingent upon addressing the aid blockade in Gaza, which the Houthis believe necessitates their offensive actions.
Following these developments, Iranian officials conveyed messages to the Houthis urging them to cool tensions. However, Amer emphasized that the Houthi leadership operates independently of Iranian directives, stating, “Iran is not interfering in our decision… it cannot dictate things.” He expressed his belief that despite external pressures for de-escalation, the Houthis will continue their military operations in self-defense against U.S. aggression.
The U.S. government has intensified its focus on Iran since President Trump resumed strict sanctions following his withdrawal from a pivotal nuclear agreement in 2015. The Houthis, supported by Iran, have warned of their capability to retaliate against any U.S. naval assets involved in attacks against them. Amer highlighted, “If they are hitting us from (U.S. aircraft carrier USS Harry S.) Truman, we will retaliate by hitting Truman.”
Historically, the Houthis have re-engaged in maritime aggression since the Gaza conflict heightened in 2023, claiming their actions are motivated by solidarity with Palestinians. The group reaffirmed its intent to target only Israeli shipping despite the broader impact of U.S. military actions in the region, which has resulted in significant casualties for the Houthis. They had previously suspended such operations when a ceasefire was established but resumed attacks when negotiations over Gaza stalled.
Amer also noted that while some European nations have advised against escalation, the Houthis remain committed to their stated objectives. He pointed out that Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have refrained from military involvement, which the Houthis currently view positively. However, he warned that any support for U.S. military actions could provoke retaliatory measures from the Houthis. He remarked, “If any aircraft or base is used against us then we will escalate and we will defend ourselves.”
In summary, the Houthis, under increasing military pressure from the U.S. and calls for moderation from Iran, remain steadfast in their stance to continue operations against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea. They assert their right to self-defense while navigating complex geopolitical tensions involving regional and international powers.
In conclusion, the Houthis remain firm in their military strategy in the Red Sea despite pressure from the U.S. and appeals for restraint from Iran. Their commitment to continue operations against Israeli shipping underscores the complexities of regional dynamics, particularly regarding the ongoing Gaza situation. The Houthis maintain that any dialogue concerning de-escalation is conditioned upon the resolution of humanitarian issues in Gaza, demonstrating the intertwining of local actions and broader geopolitical influences.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
