Iran denies supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels after U.S. airstrikes killed at least 31 individuals, including women and children. The strikes targeted Houthi leaders and were attributed to ongoing tensions related to the Gaza conflict. Despite claims of Iranian military support to the Houthis, Iranian officials refute these allegations and call for cessation of U.S. attacks, while the Houthis threaten renewed maritime assaults against Israel.
On Sunday, Iran reiterated its denial of assistance to Yemen’s Houthi rebels following recent United States airstrikes targeting the group. President Donald Trump emphasized that Tehran would be held “fully accountable” for the actions of the Houthis. The Houthi-run Health Ministry reported that the strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 31 individuals, including women and children, with over 100 others injured.
The Houthis have a history of attacking international shipping in the Red Sea and have launched missiles and drones towards Israel as acts of solidarity with Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict. The U.S. airstrikes mark one of the most extensive operations against the Houthis since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023, as stated by Trump’s national security adviser, Michael Waltz, who mentioned that the strikes targeted multiple Houthi leaders.
Following a brief ceasefire, the Houthis indicated a resurgence of their attacks against Israeli vessels after Israel ceased humanitarian aid to Gaza. Despite these threats, no further attacks have been reported recently. For years, the U.S. and allies have alleged Iranian military support for the Houthis, evidenced by the U.S. Navy’s interceptions of Iranian weapons destined for the group, who controls Yemen’s northern regions, including the capital, Sanaa.
Iranian officials have denied any involvement in the Houthis’ military decisions. Gen. Hossein Salami from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard asserted that Iran does not influence the operational policies of allied militant groups. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for the cessation of U.S. airstrikes, highlighting that American actions cannot dictate Iran’s foreign strategy. Trump threatened to use “overwhelming lethal force” against the Houthis if they do not stop their maritime attacks.
The Houthis’ involvement has included targeting over 100 merchant vessels, leading to the sinking of two ships and the deaths of four sailors. While previous U.S., Israeli, and British strikes occurred in Houthi-controlled areas, the recent operation was uniquely conducted by the United States, marking a significant moment in its military engagement under the Trump administration.
In summary, Iran has firmly denied allegations of supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels amidst U.S. airstrikes aimed at the group. The Houthis have resumed threats against Israeli vessels, leading to heightened tensions. The U.S. continues to operate under claims of Iranian military assistance to the Houthis while Iran defends its position, asserting non-involvement in the rebels’ actions. The situation develops amid escalating military responses and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Original Source: www.channel3000.com
