The White House announced that US airstrikes killed multiple Houthi leaders, signaling a warning to Iran to stop backing the group. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz stated that all options to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons are on the table. The recent strikes resulted in significant casualties amid ongoing Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.
The White House reported that United States airstrikes in Yemen have successfully eliminated multiple Houthi leaders, while also warning Iran to cease support for the rebel group. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz emphasized that these targeted actions signal that Iran’s backing of Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping must come to an end. The airstrikes resulted in significant casualties, with at least 31 individuals killed and 101 injured, according to the Yemeni health ministry.
The Houthis, a Tehran-backed faction controlling large parts of Yemen, have reportedly launched extensive drone and missile attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, citing protests against Israel’s activities in Gaza as motivation. The Pentagon noted that US and commercial vessels have encountered numerous attacks since the war’s onset in October 2023, making this a critical maritime issue, as the affected sea route accounts for approximately 12 percent of global shipping traffic.
Former President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Houthi leaders via a Truth Social post, demanding an immediate halt to their attacks and threatening dire consequences should they fail to comply. Additionally, last month, Trump reached out to Iran’s supreme leader, proposing nuclear negotiations but indicating a military response if no agreement is reached. Waltz reiterated the US stance that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon and stated that all measures are being considered to prevent this from occurring.
In summary, the United States has conducted lethal airstrikes against Houthi leaders in Yemen, escalating tensions with Iran, which is warned to cease its support for the rebels. With the Houthis’ escalating attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, and the US positioning itself firmly against Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the situation remains precarious and warrants close international attention.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
