Trump Holds Iran Responsible for Houthi Attacks on Shipping in Red Sea
President Trump has warned Iran will be held accountable for Houthi attacks on shipping vessels following U.S. military strikes in Yemen. The Houthis have previously targeted vessels, exacerbating shipping disruptions in the Red Sea. Experts indicate that stability is crucial for shipping companies to resume operations in the region.
President Trump has indicated that he will hold Iran accountable for further attacks by Houthi militants on shipping vessels in the Red Sea. In a post on Truth Social, he accused Iran of orchestrating the actions of the Houthis by providing them with weapons, financial resources, and intelligence.
In his statement, Trump emphasized, “Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon, from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN, and IRAN will be held responsible, and suffer the consequences, and those consequences will be dire!”
These remarks followed a substantial military strike by the U.S. targeting Iran-aligned Houthi militants, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 53 individuals and injuries to nearly 100 in Yemen’s capital and surrounding regions, as stated by the Houthi health ministry.
The Houthis commenced attacks on military and commercial vessels shortly after the onset of the Gaza conflict in late 2023, affecting transit through a crucial maritime corridor. In early 2024, the Biden administration assembled a coalition consisting of approximately 20 countries to bolster security in the Red Sea, including defensive actions against militant attacks and the interception of drones and missiles.
Although the Houthis ceased targeting vessels in January following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, they announced the resumption of attacks last week after Israel halted humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The recent U.S. strikes aim to restore international shipping routes in the Red Sea, as prolonged Houthi assaults had compelled shipping companies to divert routes, often extending journeys significantly and jeopardizing global supply chains.
Moreover, Jonathan Roach, an analyst at Braemar ACM Shipbroking in London, pointed out that shipping companies are unlikely to resume activities in the Red Sea immediately, stating that a period of stability is required. “So, it’s probably going to take a good three to six months of no hostilities to container ships before they’ll actually risk it,” he remarked.
In summary, President Trump’s declaration places responsibility on Iran for Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, following U.S. military action against these militants. Despite the recent ceasefire and ensuing strikes meant to secure shipping lanes, uncertainty prevails in the international shipping industry, with experts suggesting a prolonged period without conflict is necessary for companies to return to normal operations.
Original Source: www.iowapublicradio.org
