Yemen’s Houthis will persist with attacks on Israeli shipping in the Red Sea despite U.S. military pressure. Foreign minister Jamal Amer stated that operations will continue until the Gaza blockade is lifted. The group claims to act independently from Iran, although they are aligned with its resistance objectives. Escalation remains possible, particularly if Gulf states intervene militarily against them.
Yemen’s Houthis, led by foreign minister Jamal Amer, have vowed to continue their attacks on Israeli-linked shipping in the Red Sea, despite U.S. military pressure and calls for de-escalation from allies like Iran. Following a series of U.S. strikes in Houthi-controlled regions, Amer asserted that their operations will persist until the blockade in Gaza is lifted. He stated that while Iran might mediate, it does not dictate their actions.
Amer underscored the Houthis’ right to self-defense, suggesting that the group sees the conflict as a war with the U.S. He claimed the Houthis had resumed targeted attacks on Israeli vessels to support Palestinians, citing Israel’s failure to end the blockade as a trigger for escalation. The group had previously launched over 100 attacks on shipping, but paused during a ceasefire in January before renewing their campaign.
Iran has been increasingly concerned about its role as tensions rise between the U.S. and Israeli forces. The Houthis insist that they are not mere proxies of Iran but aligned with its goals. Amer mentioned that the group would retaliate against U.S. military engagements, referencing a willingness to strike back if attacked, especially from U.S. assets like aircraft carriers.
Despite plans to strike Israeli shipping, Amer noted that some European nations have advised restraint, while Gulf states have remained neutral. He emphasized the Houthis’ objective to target only Israeli vessels, warning of potential Gulf state involvement in hostilities if they take military action against the Houthis. Keeping the conflict localized without further escalation remains dependent on the actions of regional powers.
In summary, the Houthis have defiantly announced their intention to maintain offensive operations against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea amidst ongoing U.S. military strikes and rising tensions in the region, asserting their right to respond vigorously to perceived threats. The situation continues to evolve with international dynamics influencing the Houthi strategy and regional security considerations.
The Houthis’ commitment to attacking Israeli-linked shipping in the Red Sea highlights a turbulent intersection of geopolitical interests, domestic motivations, and regional alliances. Their defiance against U.S. military pressure reflects a complex interaction with Iran and regional powers. The potential for escalation raises concerns about broader regional stability as the Houthis assert their right to defend against perceived aggressions. The situation remains fluid, demanding continual analysis of international and regional responses to the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.marinelink.com
