Trump Warns Iran of Severe Consequences Over Houthi Attacks
President Trump has warned Iran of ‘dire’ consequences if Houthi attacks on shipping lanes continue. Following Houthi missile strikes on a US aircraft carrier, the US launched airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen. Trump criticized Iran for supporting the Houthis, while Iran’s officials dismissed the allegations as unfounded. The ongoing conflict raises significant concerns regarding regional stability and maritime security.
United States President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, asserting that the nation will face severe consequences if the Houthi rebels in Yemen persist in attacking international shipping routes. He emphasized that the leadership of Iran will now be held accountable for every action taken by the Houthis, who have historically received support from Tehran.
This warning follows several Houthi attacks, including a recent targeting of a US aircraft carrier in the Red Sea, which occurred alongside US military strikes that reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 53 individuals in Yemen. The Pentagon confirmed that it had targeted 30 sites in Yemen throughout the weekend, marking the most extensive US military initiative in the region since President Trump resumed office.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, President Trump stated, “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,” adding that Iran would bear the responsibility and consequences for these actions. He accused Iran of providing the Houthis with funding, weaponry, and intelligence, allegations which Tehran has refuted.
Iran’s UN envoy responded to US claims in a letter to the UN Security Council, rejecting accusations of violating a UN arms embargo on Yemen and denying involvement in any destabilizing activities in the area. Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani described the US assertions as “baseless accusations.”
Pentagon authorities stated that recent US strikes on Yemen were intended to address a wider array of targets compared to those permitted under the previous administration. Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich highlighted that drone manufacturers among the Houthis were prioritized in the strikes but mentioned that there were no credible reports of civilian casualties.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell reinforced that the offensive would not be ongoing indefinitely, clarifying that the US was not seeking regime change. He remarked, “This campaign will be relentless to degrade their capability and to open up shipping lanes in the region and to defend our homeland.”
The Houthis launched drones and missiles at the USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea, of which US aircraft successfully intercepted a number. Meanwhile, the Houthis alleged that their strikes were a response to what they perceive as Israel’s blockade of Gaza.
Since November 2023, the Houthis have conducted numerous assaults on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, involving missiles, drones, and small boats. Their efforts have led to the sinking of two vessels, the seizure of another, and fatalities among crew members. Although they maintain control over Sanaa and parts of northwestern Yemen, the Houthis do not constitute Yemen’s internationally recognized government.
In conclusion, President Trump’s warning to Iran underscores the escalating tensions in Yemen amidst Houthi attacks on shipping routes. The US’s extensive military operations aim to deter further aggression while holding Iran accountable for its support of the Houthis. The situation remains volatile as the Houthis vow to continue their assaults, claiming motivations tied to regional conflicts. The international community is closely monitoring these developments as they affect both maritime security and geopolitical stability in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
