Iran has denied allegations of supporting the Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes in Sanaa, which were a response to Houthi assaults on international maritime routes. The attacks have led to significant civilian casualties, prompting Trump’s warning of increased military action. The situation reflects broader regional tensions involving Iran and the conflict dynamics related to Israel and Gaza.
Iran has categorically denied accusations of supporting the Houthi rebels in Yemen following a series of airstrikes ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump. These airstrikes were carried out in response to Houthi attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea, with Trump reiterating a commitment to employ “overwhelming lethal force” until the Houthis cease their activities. The airstrikes took place on a Saturday night, as smoke was seen rising above the capital, Sanaa.
Following the U.S. strikes, the Health Ministry controlled by the Houthis reported casualties, claiming at least 31 individuals were killed, including women and children, while over 100 were wounded. Their statement indicated that one of the airstrikes directly impacted residential homes in Saada province, resulting in the deaths of four children and a woman. The aftermath showed Yemeni citizens clearing debris from their businesses as the situation escalated.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, insisted on social media that the U.S. should stop its military actions and affirmed that Washington has no authority to dictate Iran’s foreign policy. Furthermore, General Hossein Salami, the commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, refuted claims of Iran’s involvement in the actions carried out by the Houthis, asserting that Iran does not influence their decisions.
The Houthis have previously engaged in missile and drone attacks against Israel, framing these operations as solidarity with the Palestinian cause amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Although Houthi attacks on shipping subsided during a fragile ceasefire that began in January, they threatened to resume hostilities in response to reduced humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Prior U.S. naval operations have seized Iranian-supplied weaponry intended for the Houthis, reinforcing longstanding suspicions of Iranian military support for the rebel group. The recent airstrikes mark a significant escalation in U.S. military engagement against the Houthis since Trump assumed office. With ongoing tensions and stern warnings, the situation remains critically volatile.
In summary, the article discusses Iran’s firm denial of aiding Yemen’s Houthi rebels after recent U.S. airstrikes in Sanaa, which were directed at ceasing Houthi attacks on international shipping. These attacks have resulted in numerous casualties, complicating the relationship between the U.S. and Iran. The Houthis’ previous recognition of their military actions against Israel highlights the multifaceted geopolitical concerns in the region, underscoring the ongoing conflict and the U.S. commitment to confront hostile actions effectively.
Original Source: apnews.com
