Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, condemned U.S. strikes on Yemen as a “crime” and accused the U.S. of facilitating Israeli attacks in Gaza. The escalation highlights tensions between U.S. allies and Iranian proxies like the Houthis, who have threatened to renew attacks on Israeli-linked shipping. The situation remains volatile as military actions continue and the risk of regional conflict looms.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, condemned recent U.S. military strikes on Yemen, labeling them as a “crime that must be stopped.” His remarks, made in a video statement, highlight the increased tensions in the region, especially in light of renewed Israeli airstrikes on Gaza and Houthi threats to vessels associated with Israel. The escalating conflict emphasizes the ongoing confrontation between U.S.-allied forces and Iran’s proxies in the Middle East.
Khamenei accused the U.S. of facilitating Israeli actions in Gaza, asserting that the strikes were conducted with American “permission, or support and green light.” He called on global “freedom-seekers” to unite against Israel. Iran’s foreign ministry echoed his sentiments, denouncing U.S. airstrikes as “war crimes” amid Israel’s military efforts in Gaza.
The U.S. has confirmed that its strikes targeted high-ranking Houthi officials, resulting in significant casualties. According to the Houthi health ministry, the strikes led to at least 53 fatalities and numerous injuries, marking a pivotal point in U.S. military involvement in Yemen under President Donald Trump.
The Houthis, part of Iran’s “axis of resistance,” have pledged to escalate attacks on Israeli-linked ships following Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Their previous disruptions of Red Sea shipping lanes occurred amid conflict, particularly after the onset of the Gaza war on October 7, 2023.
As Israeli airstrikes continue, Khamenei has characterized them as a “catastrophic crime,” attributing blame to U.S. support for these actions. With rising tensions, the U.S. is likely to persist in targeting Houthi military positions, raising prospects for a broader regional conflict if the Houthis follow through on their threats to disrupt trade routes.
In summary, Ayatollah Khamenei has denounced U.S. military strikes on the Houthis, framing them as a violation that threatens regional stability. His condemnation reflects Iran’s ongoing support for the Houthis while critiquing U.S. involvement. As conflicts in Yemen and Gaza escalate, the potential for broader confrontations increases, with both sides preparing for further military actions.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
