Iran denies aiding Yemen’s Houthi rebels after U.S. airstrikes that killed at least 31 individuals. The Houthis continue to target shipping, prompting U.S. military actions. President Trump warned Iran of accountability and reiterated the use of overwhelming force against the rebels. Tensions escalate as both sides exchange threats.
On Sunday, Iran reaffirmed its denial of supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes aimed at them. President Donald Trump had previously warned that Iran would be held accountable for the rebels’ actions. The Houthi-run Health Ministry reported that the strikes resulted in at least 31 deaths, including women and children, and over 100 injuries. The rebels claimed that a strike hit homes in northern Saada province, with Al-Masirah TV broadcasting images of the deceased.
The Houthis have a history of targeting international shipping in the Red Sea and have launched attacks against Israel, claiming these actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. The U.S. airstrikes were among the most significant directed against the Houthis since hostilities escalated in Gaza in October 2023. National security adviser Michael Waltz noted that the strikes targeted multiple Houthi leaders.
Following a temporary ceasefire in January, Houthi attacks had subsided but resumed threats against Israeli vessels amidst humanitarian aid restrictions imposed by Israel. No Houthi attacks have been reported since the renewed threats. The U.S. and other nations have long accused Iran of supplying military aid to the Houthis, with the U.S. Navy intercepting Iranian weaponry intended for the group.
Gen. Hossein Salami, the head of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, dismissed allegations of Iran’s involvement in Houthi operations, asserting that the country does not dictate the operational strategies of allied militant groups. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called on the U.S. to cease its airstrikes, asserting that the U.S. cannot dictate Iran’s foreign policy.
President Trump reiterated his administration’s intent to use overwhelming force until Houthi attacks on maritime trade cease. The Houthis have previously targeted over 100 vessels, sinking two and causing four sailor fatalities since the onset of the Gaza conflict. Saturday’s operation was distinct in that it was solely conducted by U.S. forces, marking the first strikes on Houthis under Trump’s second term.
The recent U.S. airstrikes against the Houthis mark a significant escalation in the conflict, as Iran maintains its denial of support for the group amid accusations of military assistance. The Houthis’ aggressive targeting of international shipping continues to pose threats in the Red Sea, with U.S. officials indicating ongoing intent to strike back against such provocations. Diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Iran remain high, particularly related to foreign policy and military engagement in the region.
Original Source: www.channel3000.com
