Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei condemned U.S. airstrikes on Houthis, asserting U.S. panic over regional resistance. Tehran maintains the Houthis operate independently and argues against U.S. interference. The strikes escalate tensions, particularly around U.S.-Iran relations and regional stability, as experts suggest diplomatic solutions may be more effective than military tactics.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized recent U.S. airstrikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen, stating the U.S. is experiencing “panic” due to the growing resistance in the region. He emphasized that the U.S. military actions reflect fear over the Houthis’ increasing strength and asserted that Yemen’s ultimate victory is assured, showcasing Tehran’s rejection of U.S. warnings against its support for the Houthis.
The airstrikes signify a major escalation in response to the Houthis’ attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, which have disrupted global commerce. This situation intensifies existing tensions with Washington as President Trump escalates pressure regarding Iran’s nuclear program, increasing the possibility of confrontation.
Khamenei articulated that the U.S. actions demonstrate a recognition of the rising power of regional resistance. He communicated this via social media, stating, “The nation of Yemen is definitely victorious… this resistance will prove to be effective.” Such comments serve to bolster Iran’s narrative regarding the Houthis’ autonomy.
Tehran has dismissed allegations that the Houthis are Iranian proxies, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserting that the U.S. lacks the authority to dictate Iranian foreign policy. Khamenei’s assertions were supported by IRGC Commander Hossein Salami, who claimed that Yemenis maintain an independent national policy, while Iran’s Foreign Ministry denounced the strikes as violations of international law.
The coordinated airstrikes by the U.S. targeted Houthi positions, marking a shift to a more aggressive military approach compared to that of the Biden administration, as stated in reports. Analysts suggest this strategy mirrors past failed approaches and that genuine resolution requires diplomatic efforts rather than military escalation.
Trita Parsi from the Quincy Institute criticized the continuing U.S. operations, stating, “Reality is that there is no vital U.S. interest here that justifies this bombing campaign.” He recommended that effective protection of sea lanes would better be achieved by pursuing peace efforts in Gaza rather than escalating tensions in Yemen.
As U.S. strikes persist and Houthi threats on maritime traffic continue, the situation remains precarious. Iran’s reactions, particularly through diplomatic channels at the UN, will likely shape developments in this ongoing crisis.
The recent U.S. airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen have been met with stern criticism from Iran, particularly from Ayatollah Khamenei, who views these strikes as indicative of U.S. panic in response to growing regional resistance. Tehran maintains that the Houthis operate independently of Iranian control and has condemned U.S. military actions as violations of international law. The ongoing conflict heightens tensions and raises the stakes for diplomatic interventions moving forward.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
