Iran Denounces U.S. Strikes in Yemen as ‘Crime’, Threatens Retaliation

Iran condemned U.S. strikes on Houthis in Yemen as “a crime” and vowed to retaliate if attacked. U.S. military action aimed to preserve navigation in the region, while Houthis claimed to have retaliated against the USS Harry Truman. Casualty figures from the strikes have been significant, and the backdrop includes ongoing negotiations related to Iran’s nuclear program.

On Monday, Iran condemned the recent U.S. military strikes against the Houthis in Yemen, labeling them as “a crime.” The Iranian government articulated its stance, stating that it would respond decisively to any aggression against its territory following threats made by U.S. officials. U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that the strikes aimed to ensure freedom of navigation in the region, which is critical to U.S. interests, and warned Iran to cease supporting the Houthis.

During a weekly press briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei affirmed the nation’s commitment to defending its territorial integrity and national interests, asserting, “We will respond decisively to any aggression against Iran’s territorial integrity, security, and national interests.” The backdrop to these developments includes a series of Houthi attacks on shipping since October 7, 2023, coinciding with the outbreak of war in Gaza.

U.S. President Donald Trump ordered extensive military action against the Houthis in response to their hostilities towards Red Sea shipping, marking a significant escalation in military engagement in the region. Following the strikes, reports indicated that at least 53 individuals, including five children, were killed, with 98 others injured, according to the Houthis’ Health Ministry spokesperson, Anis Al Asbahi.

The Houthis purportedly retaliated by launching attacks on the USS Harry Truman, claiming to have targeted the naval vessel in response to U.S. military actions. They reported that 18 missiles and a drone were fired at the carrier group, although they did not provide corroborating evidence for these claims.

The U.S. continues to implement maximum pressure strategies on Iran alongside heightened sanctions, while attempting to engage in negotiations regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a letter directed to Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Trump offered talks about the nuclear issue, which Iranian officials are currently reviewing. However, Iranian leaders, including Mr. Khamenei, have rejected negotiations stemming from pressures imposed by the U.S.

In summary, Iran’s vocal condemnation of U.S. strikes in Yemen highlights escalating tensions between the two nations. The Iranian leadership’s commitment to retaliate against perceived aggressions indicates a precarious geopolitical landscape. With numerous casualties resulting from these strikes and the Houthis’ claims of retaliation, the situation remains tense, pushing both sides to navigate a complex web of diplomacy and military engagement. The U.S.’s insistence on maintaining pressure on Iran adds further complexity to any potential negotiations regarding Tehran’s nuclear aspirations.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com