Iran Refutes Claims of Supporting Houthi Rebels Amidst U.S. Airstrikes
Iran denies allegations of supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes that resulted in numerous casualties. Tensions remain high amid ongoing conflicts with Israel and Hamas. The Houthis have engaged in targeted attacks on international shipping, and U.S. officials advocate for a strong response against these threats.
On Sunday, Iran refuted allegations of providing support to the Houthi rebels in Yemen, following U.S. airstrikes. President Trump had earlier warned Iran that it would be held “fully accountable” for the Houthis’ actions. The strikes reportedly resulted in at least 31 fatalities, including women and children, with over 100 individuals wounded, according to the Houthi-run Health Ministry.
The Houthis have been engaged in hostile actions against international shipping in the Red Sea and have launched missiles at Israel, citing solidarity with Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Although an Israel-Hamas ceasefire was established in January, the Houthis expressed intentions to renew attacks following Israeli disruptions to humanitarian aid in Gaza.
The U.S. and various nations have accused Iran of supplying military resources to the Houthis, highlighted by U.S. Navy interceptions of Iranian-made missile components destined for the group, which maintains control over Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. Gen. Hossein Salami of the Revolutionary Guard denied any involvement, stating that Iran does not dictate the operational policies of aligned militant factions.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the U.S. strikes, suggesting they reflect an inability to influence Iran’s foreign policy. President Trump reaffirmed a commitment to utilize “overwhelming lethal force” against any Houthi threats to maritime safety. Despite recent Houthi threats to restart assaults on Israeli vessels, there have been no reported attacks since the U.S. airstrikes occurred.
Throughout their campaign from October 2023 to January 2024, the Houthis targeted over 100 vessels, leading to two confirmed sinkings and the deaths of four sailors. Past operations against Houthi areas have involved the U.S., Israel, and Britain, yet Saturday’s strikes were solely the responsibility of U.S. forces and marked the first such military action under Trump’s second presidency.
In summary, Iran has denied providing aid to Yemen’s Houthi rebels after recent U.S. airstrikes resulted in significant casualties. This development underscores the ongoing tensions in the region, with both Iran and the Houthis asserting their actions. The U.S. administration remains committed to using force against maritime threats posed by the Houthis following their history of attacks. The situation continues to evolve amidst broader geopolitical issues related to Iran and its allies.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
