Iran denied allegations of aiding Yemen’s Houthis after U.S. airstrikes killed 31, including women and children. The Houthis, claiming solidarity with Gaza, had previously attacked vessels in the Red Sea. Despite U.S. accusations of Iranian support, officials, including Iranian military leaders, maintain independence in their operations. Recent U.S. strikes mark a significant military response under Trump’s administration.
Iran has recently reiterated its denial of providing support to Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes. On Sunday, the Iranian leadership labeled accusations of assistance as untrue, especially in light of President Trump’s assertion that Tehran would face accountability for its actions. This comes after the striking of Houthi positions resulted in casualties, claiming at least 31 lives, including women and children, according to the Houthi-run Health Ministry.
The Houthi rebels have historically targeted international maritime activities in the Red Sea and have executed missile and drone strikes against Israel, citing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Following the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas established in January, these aggressive actions ceased for a period but were threatened to be resumed due to recent Israeli actions against Gaza’s humanitarian aid, according to Houthi sources.
The United States has long alleged that Iran supplies military support to the Houthis. U.S. Navy interceptions of weaponry intended for the Houthis have bolstered these claims, particularly as the militant group controls significant territorial regions, including Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. General Hossein Salami, commanding Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, has publicly refuted any involvement of Iran in Houthi military strategies, asserting they operate independently.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has urged the U.S. to cease its military operations against the Houthis, countering American influences on Iran’s foreign policy. In stark terms, Trump threatened to unleash “overwhelming lethal force” if Houthi strikes on maritime operations did not cease, emphasizing the escalating tensions surrounding these developments.
The latest U.S. airstrikes were notable as they were the first offensive against Houthi positions during the current Trump administration. Reports indicate the Houthis had previously engaged more than 100 vessels throughout a lengthy offensive against military and civilian ships amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, sinking two vessels and claiming several lives.
In summary, Iran continues to deny allegations of aiding the Houthis amid U.S. airstrikes, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties. The Houthis have escalated their attacks on maritime targets as a show of force in support of Palestine, prompting U.S. threats of severe military retaliation. Trump’s administration marked a new phase of enforcement against the Houthis, highlighting the prolonged and complex tensions in the region.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
