Iran denied involvement with Yemen’s Houthi rebels after U.S. airstrikes killed civilians. President Trump vowed accountability towards Iran, while the Houthis threatened renewed attacks on shipping. U.S. Navy intercepted Iranian arms destined for the Houthis, reflecting ongoing concerns regarding Iranian influence in the region. The conflict remains a critical point of tension in Middle Eastern politics.
On Sunday, Iran reaffirmed its denial of assistance to Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes targeting the group and President Trump’s warning that Tehran would be held accountable for their actions. The Health Ministry controlled by the Houthis reported that the airstrikes resulted in the deaths of at least 31 individuals, including women and children, with over 100 injuries. The strikes also reportedly impacted homes in northern Saada province, resulting in casualties among civilians, including four children and one woman.
The Houthis have been known to attack international shipping in the Red Sea and have launched missiles and drones against Israel as expressions of solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts with Hamas. Although these attacks ceased temporarily when a ceasefire was established in Gaza, the Houthis threatened to renew aggression following Israel’s recent humanitarian aid blockade. The U.S. and allied nations have long accused Iran of supplying military support to the Houthis, which control Sanaa and other regions in northern Yemen, and the U.S. Navy has previously intercepted Iranian-made weaponry intended for the group.
General Hossein Salami, the leader of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, reiterated the nation’s detachment from the Houthis’ operational decisions, asserting that Iran does not influence their strategies. Furthermore, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the U.S. strikes and asserted that Washington is unable to dictate Iran’s foreign policy.
President Trump responded to escalating tensions on Saturday, pledging to employ significant force against the Houthis until they cease their assaults on maritime shipping in the vital corridor. The recent airstrikes were conducted solely by the United States and marked the first military engagement with the Houthis during Trump’s second term. Just prior to these strikes, the Houthis had conveyed intentions to reinstate attacks on Israeli vessels due to the blockade on Gaza, although reports indicate no attacks have occurred since the U.S. intervention.
Iran continues to deny any involvement in supporting the Houthis amidst U.S. military actions against the group. Reports indicate significant civilian casualties resulting from recent airstrikes. As tensions rise, both the U.S. and Iran remain engaged in a complex geopolitical landscape concerning military aid and regional conflicts. The Houthis’ threat to resume attacks signifies a potential escalation in a fragile ceasefire, underscoring the ongoing instability in the area.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
