Houthi Rebels Demand Israel Lift Blockade on Gaza Aid: Ultimatum Issued
The Houthi rebels have issued a four-day ultimatum to Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza aid or face renewed naval operations. Their prior attacks targeted shipping routes in solidarity with Palestinians, while Israel has suspended aid over claims related to Hamas. The situation is likely to escalate depending on Israel’s response, with Hamas supporting the Houthis’ stance.
On Friday, the leader of Yemen’s Houthi rebels declared a mandate for Israel to lift its blockade on humanitarian aid into Gaza within four days. Should this demand not be met, the Houthis have threatened to recommence their naval operations against Israel, marking a potential escalation in the ongoing conflict following a period of reduced hostilities since January.
The Iran-aligned Houthi movement had previously executed over 100 attacks against maritime targets since November 2023 in solidarity with the Palestinian situation amid Israel’s conflict with Hamas. Their operations included sinking vessels, confiscating ships, and resulting in numerous fatalities among sailors, which significantly disrupted global shipping routes, compelling companies to opt for more extended and costly sea passages around southern Africa.
The Houthi group articulated their ultimatum, stating, “We will give a deadline for four days. This deadline is for the [Gaza ceasefire] mediators for their efforts.” They warned that should Israel maintain its blockade that impedes humanitarian aid into Gaza, they would resume hostilities against Israeli forces.
Israel’s actions on March 2 to halt aid truck entries into Gaza were justified by claims of Hamas misappropriating the supplies, leading to accusations that the militant group was obstructing access for Palestinians. In reaction, Hamas applauded the announcement from the Houthis, asserting that it was a commendable continuation of mutual support manifesting over the past 15 months of conflict in Gaza.
The Houthis previously expressed a commitment to armed resistance should the U.S. and Israel attempt any forcible displacements of Palestinians from Gaza. Their military stance underscores a significant regional challenge amid the ongoing crisis.
The Houthi rebels have set a strict four-day deadline for Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza, threatening to renew attacks against Israeli maritime interests if their demands are not met. This declaration follows a series of aggressive maritime assaults aimed at supporting Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas. As tensions rise, Hamas has praised the Houthis’ actions, while the potential for escalated violence remains a pressing concern.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
