The U.S. may strike Iranian targets in Yemen as part of its military campaign against Houthis, linked to rising tensions over shipping lane security. Following strikes that have already caused civilian casualties, Oman expresses humanitarian concerns, while critics accuse the U.S. of violating international law. Iran denies supporting the Houthis amidst escalating military actions and geopolitical pressures.
The U.S. may target Iranian interests in Yemen as part of its military response to Houthi-rebel aggression, according to National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. Washington has called for Iran to cease all support for the Houthis, linking recent U.S. strikes to the need to protect critical shipping lanes in the Red Sea and safeguard Israel from rebel attacks.
Strikes have resulted in over 50 fatalities, as reported by Yemen’s health ministry, raising oil prices and concerns over regional stability. Oman expressed significant worry regarding the humanitarian repercussions of these military actions, stating, “The escalation exacerbates the suffering of the Yemeni people and increases instability in the region.”
Human rights organization DAWN criticized the U.S. strikes, accusing President Trump of prolonging conflict in Yemen and breaching international law. DAWN’s director, Sarah Leah Whitson, remarked that Trump is undermining his earlier promises about U.S. military involvement abroad, further destabilizing the region by prioritizing Israel’s interests over American ones.
The Houthis have previously launched attacks on vessels bound for Israel and resumed missile strikes following a ceasefire that temporarily halted their actions. Mike Waltz indicated that the U.S. is prepared to expand its military campaign beyond just Houthi targets to include sites connected to Iran that have facilitated Houthi operations.
The potential targets for strikes could involve Iranian vessels near Yemen, military advisors, and other resources aiding the Houthis in their assaults. Economic analysts believe the Houthi offensive poses a threat to global trade through disruption of vital shipping routes.
Claims emerged from the Houthis that they targeted a U.S. carrier in the Red Sea, indicating they would retaliate against any further escalation. U.S. operations initiated by Trump could extend for an undetermined duration. Waltz emphasized accountability for both the Houthis and their Iranian supporters.
Iran has denied providing support to the Houthis, warning of retaliation against potential U.S. strikes. The regional influence of Iran and its allies appears to be wavering, as pressures intensify against groups linked to it following setbacks in Lebanon and Syria, along with pressures in Iraq to dismantle Iran-affiliated militia forces. The U.S. has also signaled possible military action against Iran if outreach regarding its nuclear program fails.
The U.S. military’s involvement in Yemen signals increased confrontations with Iranian entities. With heightened Houthi aggressions against Israel and critical shipping lanes in jeopardy, U.S. strikes are framed as necessary for regional security. However, these actions have attracted humanitarian criticism and raised concerns over escalating conflict. The interplay between U.S. and Iranian interests remains complex, factoring in ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
