Iran has denied allegations of aiding Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes that killed numerous individuals, including women and children. President Trump warned Iran would be held accountable for Houthi actions. The Houthis, accused of targeting international shipping, threatened to renew attacks amid ongoing tensions with Israel, while U.S., Israeli, and British forces had previously attacked the region.
On Sunday, Iran denied allegations of supporting the Houthi rebels in Yemen, following U.S. airstrikes aimed at the militants. President Donald Trump asserted that Iran would be held “fully accountable” for the actions of the Houthis, who, according to their Health Ministry, suffered casualties including 31 fatalities, among them women and children. Reports indicate that one strike impacted two residences in Saada province, resulting in the deaths of four children and a woman.
The Houthis have engaged in acts such as targeting shipping in the Red Sea and launching missiles at Israel, asserting these actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Although the assaults ceased after a temporary ceasefire in January, renewed threats emerged following Israel’s suspension of humanitarian aid to Gaza this month.
The U.S. and allied nations have consistently accused Iran of supplying military support to the Houthis, with U.S. Navy interventions confirming the seizure of Iranian missile components destined for the group, which governs Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. General Hossein Salami, of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, insisted that his nation does not direct the operational strategies of its allied militant entities.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, criticized the U.S. for its military actions, asserting that the United States lacks authority over Iran’s foreign policy. In reaction to the Houthi threat to revive attacks on Israeli vessels, Trump announced intentions to employ “overwhelming lethal force” unless the attacks on maritime operations cease.
The Houthis previously targeted over 100 vessels, resulting in casualties, including the sinking of two ships and the deaths of four sailors in the conflict’s recent phase. While previous attacks had involved U.S., Israeli, and British forces, this recent action marks a new, solo military engagement by the U.S. against the Houthis under the second Trump administration.
In summary, tensions surrounding U.S. airstrikes on the Houthis have reignited allegations regarding Iran’s support for the militant group. With significant casualties reported, the situation remains precarious as the U.S. administration warns Iran of accountability while asserting a commitment to protect maritime operations. Diplomatic relations continue to be testy, with Iranian officials rebuffing any military collaboration with the Houthis and calling for an end to American military actions.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
