Houthis Assert Independence Amid US Pressure and Iranian Mediation
The Houthis in Yemen will not reduce their attacks on Israeli shipping despite US military pressure and Iranian appeals. Foreign Minister Jamal Amer asserted their right to self-defense following recent US strikes in Houthi areas. Iran’s mediation efforts have not deterred the group, which continues to focus on supporting Palestinians in Gaza.
Yemen’s Houthis have declared their intention to maintain aggressive actions against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, disregarding both US military pressure and appeals from Iranian allies. This statement was made by Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer after the US conducted military strikes in Houthi-held territories. Amer emphasized that these operations would persist until the blockade on Gaza is lifted.
Iran has attempted to mediate by communicating with the Houthis to reduce tensions; however, these efforts have been met with resistance. Amer noted that while Iran sometimes mediates, it does not dictate the group’s decisions. He emphasized the right of the Houthis to defend themselves amidst escalating conflict with the US, indicating that increased aggression is likely.
Iran is reportedly concerned about a potential deeper conflict with the United States, following direct exchanges of attacks between Iran and Israel amid the ongoing Gaza war. President Trump has intensified sanctions on Iran, linking its actions to those of the Houthis. Amer stated, “If they are hitting us from (US aircraft carrier USS Harry S.) Truman, we will retaliate by hitting Truman.”
The Houthis announced they had resumed attacks on Israeli vessels in March after a failed deadline imposed on Israel to cease the blockade of Gaza. This blockade has severely impacted humanitarian aid. The Houthis have conducted numerous assaults on shipping since November 2023, framing these actions as solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Despite pressures from various international actors to de-escalate, Amer insisted the group’s focus remains on targeting Israeli shipping specifically. He reported that some European nations had cautioned against escalation, while the Gulf states have yet to intervene militarily in the conflict. Amer stated that neutrality could spare them from being drawn into the conflict, but any hostile action against the Houthis would prompt a vigorous response from them.
In summary, the Houthis’ assertive stance against Israeli shipping amid US military actions demonstrates their commitment to ongoing operations, especially in support of Palestinians in Gaza. Despite Iranian efforts to mediate, the Houthis maintain their autonomy in decision-making, asserting their right to self-defense. The situation remains intricate, as the actions of the US, Israel, and Gulf states heavily influence the evolving dynamics of this conflict.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
