Yemen’s Houthis Impose Deadline on Israel to Lift Gaza Aid Blockade
Abdul Malik al-Houthi has established a four-day deadline for Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza aid, threatening to resume naval operations against Israel if unmet. The Houthis had engaged in prior military actions in solidarity with Palestinians amidst ongoing conflict.
In a bold statement on Friday, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, the leader of Yemen’s Houthis, imposed a four-day deadline on Israel to lift its blockade of humanitarian aid into Gaza. He warned that if Israel does not comply, the group would resume its naval operations targeting Israeli interests.
The Iran-aligned Houthis had previously conducted over 100 attacks on shipping since November 2023, advocating for the Palestinian cause amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. This offensive resulted in the sinking of two vessels, the seizure of another, and the deaths of at least four seafarers, significantly disrupting global shipping routes.
Al-Houthi stated, “We will give a deadline for four days. This deadline is for the (Gaza ceasefire) mediators for their efforts.” He emphasized that if Israel continues to impede humanitarian aid and maintains closed crossings, the Houthis will take action against Israel once again.
On March 2, a confrontation intensified as Israel halted the entry of aid trucks into Gaza, escalating tensions and prompting Hamas to call for intervention from Egyptian and Qatari mediators. The Houthis, controlling substantial portions of Yemen, also signaled intentions for military response should the US and Israel attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza.
The movement led by Abdul Malik al-Houthi has issued a clear ultimatum to Israel regarding the aid blockade on Gaza, highlighting potential repercussions should their demands remain unmet. The Houthis’ previous military actions illustrate their willingness to exert pressure in support of the Palestinian cause, and the current situation has exacerbated tensions amidst an already complex geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
