Iran has denied accusations of aiding Yemen’s Houthi rebels after U.S. airstrikes that reportedly killed 31. The Houthis, responsible for targeting international shipping and launching missiles at Israel, have threatened to renew attacks amid ongoing tensions. U.S. officials, including President Trump, have warned Iran of accountability, while the Revolutionary Guard maintains its non-involvement in Houthi operations.
On Sunday, Iran firmly denied allegations of providing assistance to Yemen’s Houthi rebels following recent U.S. airstrikes against the group. President Donald Trump warned that the U.S. would hold Iran “fully accountable” for any involvement. The Houthi-run Health Ministry reported that the strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 31 individuals, including women and children, while injuring over 100 others, with claims of specific attacks on residential areas in northern Saada province.
The Houthi rebels have consistently targeted international shipping within the Red Sea and launched missiles and drones at Israel, citing solidarity with Palestinians amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza. A temporary ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict had halted these attacks, yet the Houthis threatened to renew aggression following Israel’s blockade on aid to Gaza this month.
For years, the U.S. and allied nations have accused Iran of military support for the Houthis, with the U.S. Navy seizing Iranian weaponry that was intended for the group, which successfully controls Yemen’s capital and northern regions. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard leader, Gen. Hossein Salami, emphasized that Iran does not influence the operational strategies of allied militant groups in the region.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for an end to U.S. airstrikes in a social media post, asserting that the U.S. cannot dictate Iran’s foreign policy. Trump, in turn, threatened to utilize “overwhelming lethal force” as a means to compel the Houthis to cease their actions against maritime vessels.
The recent airstrikes were a direct response to the Houthis’ announcement regarding potential renewed attacks on Israeli ships, and they follow a history of previous military actions by the U.S., Israel, and Britain targeting Houthi territories. This was the first military operation against the Houthis during Trump’s second term.
In conclusion, the tensions surrounding Iran’s alleged support for the Houthi rebels remain high, particularly in light of U.S. military actions and statements from President Trump. The Houthis’ ongoing threats against shipping lanes amplify regional security concerns, while Iran continues to refute any responsibility. The situation necessitates close monitoring as both sides navigate escalating hostilities and geopolitical rivalries in the region.
Original Source: www.clickorlando.com