Houthi Official Declares Yemen at War with the U.S., Voices Escalation Concerns
Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer announced that Yemen is essentially at war with the U.S., warning Gulf states to maintain neutrality amidst rising tensions. Despite U.S. airstrikes, the Houthis vow to continue attacks on Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea, attributing their decisions to self-defense rather than Iranian directives. The U.S. has emphasized that it does not aim for regime change, complicating the conflict dynamics further.
The foreign minister of the Houthi government, Jamal Amer, has declared that Yemen is effectively at war with the United States, indicating that further escalation in the conflict is likely. Following recent U.S. military airstrikes in Yemen, Amer urged Gulf states, specifically Saudi Arabia and the UAE, to maintain their neutrality amidst rising tensions. He expressed satisfaction with their current stance but cautioned that any military intervention could result in them becoming targets in the conflict.
Recent intelligence indicates that Iran, a key ally of the Houthis, has reportedly sent messages urging de-escalation to the Yemeni rebels. Nevertheless, Amer asserted that the Houthis would not reduce their operations against Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea, emphasizing that their actions are driven by the need to defend against perceived aggressions, regardless of pressures from Washington or Iran.
He further stated, “Now we see that Yemen is at war with the U.S. and that means that we have a right to defend ourselves with all possible means, so escalation is likely.” Amer also criticized U.S. actions, claiming that the Houthis had only targeted vessels associated with Israel, while the U.S. chose to intervene without provocation.
Amer acknowledged receiving requests for de-escalation from various parties but reiterated that as long as the aid blockade in Gaza remains, the Houthis will persist with their operations. He reassured that the group would avoid conflict if the Gulf states remain neutral but warned that military actions would precipitate a response from the Houthis.
Recent U.S. statements reflect a firm stance against Iran’s involvement with the Houthis, with President Trump asserting that any aggression by the Houthis will be viewed as an act of Iran. This approach reinforces a broader policy of holding Iran responsible for the actions of its allies. Furthermore, the escalation of Houthi attacks has significantly affected international shipping lanes, compelling vessels to take longer routes and increasing insurance rates in the region.
As the U.S. bombing campaign continues, the Pentagon has clarified that the objective is not regime change but to compel the Houthis to cease attacks. This shift suggests a more deliberate strategy focused on managing the conflict rather than outright confrontation, reflecting ongoing complexities in U.S. foreign policy in the region.
In summary, Jamal Amer’s pronouncement signals a significant escalation in the Houthi-U.S. conflict, with implications for Gulf state neutrality. The Houthis refuse to de-escalate their operations against Israeli-linked interests while asserting their independence from Iranian influence. The U.S. response includes a resolute military stance but avoids a regime change narrative, focusing on strategic objectives that may redefine its engagement in Yemen. As tensions escalate, the broader impacts on international shipping and regional stability remain profound.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
