Iran denied claims of supporting Houthi rebels after U.S. airstrikes that resulted in significant casualties. President Trump warned of accountability for Iran’s actions, while Houthi missile attacks on international shipping raised tensions. U.S. military operations against the Houthis marked the first under Trump’s second term.
On Sunday, Iran refuted claims of providing assistance to Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes that targeted them. President Donald Trump warned Iran would be held “fully accountable” for its actions. The Houthis reported that the strikes resulted in 31 fatalities, including women and children, and over 100 injuries, with specific strikes affecting homes in Saada province.
The Houthis have engaged in attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and have launched missiles and drones at Israel to show support for Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Although such attacks ceased during a fragile ceasefire established in January, threats to resume them arose after Israel restricted humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The U.S. and allied nations have long accused Iran of supplying military resources to the Houthis. The U.S. Navy has intercepted Iranian-made missile components allegedly aimed at supporting the Houthis, who control Yemen’s capital and northern regions. Iranian officials, including Gen. Hossein Salami, asserted that Iran does not influence the operational strategies of the groups it aligns with.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged the U.S. to halt its military actions, emphasizing that the U.S. cannot dictate Iran’s foreign policy. Trump’s remarks on employing “overwhelming lethal force,” aimed at curbing Houthi attacks on maritime routes, coincided with a recent threat from the Houthis to target Israeli vessels due to ongoing tensions surrounding Gaza.
The Houthis had previously attacked over 100 merchant vessels during their campaign in the Red Sea, resulting in the sinking of two ships and the deaths of four sailors. The recent airstrikes marked the first offensive against the Houthis by the U.S. in the current Trump presidency, diverging from past operations involving U.S., Israeli, and British forces.
In summary, Iran’s denial of aiding the Houthis comes amidst escalating tensions following U.S. airstrikes that reportedly killed 31 individuals. The Houthis’ targeting of international shipping and threats of renewed attacks on Israel emphasize the complex regional dynamics influenced by the Israel-Hamas conflict. The geopolitical implications of these interactions underscore the ongoing international concern regarding Iran’s alleged support for proxy militant groups.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
