Trump Warns Iran of Severe Consequences Amid Houthi Aggression
President Trump cautions Iran of severe repercussions for Houthi attacks on international shipping lanes. Following recent targeted airstrikes in Yemen and rising tensions, Trump emphasizes Iran’s accountability for Houthi actions. US operations target Houthi capabilities while managing risks of civilian casualties. The Houthis vow to persist with assaults until Israel lifts its Gaza blockade, creating a volatile situation in the region.
United States President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that it will incur “dire” consequences if the Houthi rebel group from Yemen continues its assaults on international shipping lanes. Trump articulated that the Iranian leadership will henceforward be held accountable for every attack carried out by the Houthis, a group supported by Tehran for an extended period. This warning follows an incident where the Houthis targeted a US aircraft carrier in the Red Sea, soon after American airstrikes in Yemen resulted in significant casualties, including at least 53 deaths according to Yemen’s health ministry.
The Pentagon confirmed that it has commenced renewed operations, targeting 30 sites in Yemen, representing the most extensive US military action in the Middle East since Trump’s return to presidency. On his Truth Social platform, Trump emphasized that, from this moment, every Houthis’ attack should be viewed as a strike facilitated by the Iranian government, asserting that Iran would be deemed responsible and would face substantial repercussions for these actions.
Furthermore, Trump accused Tehran of providing financial support, armaments, and intelligence to the Houthis, claims that Iran has categorically denied. In response to US accusations, Iran’s envoy to the UN defended the nation, asserting that it is not violating any arms embargo nor engaging in destabilizing acts within the region. Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani characterized the US accusations as “baseless”.
According to Pentagon officials, current US operations in Yemen encompass a wider array of targets than previous actions approved during Biden’s administration, including Houthi drone manufacturers. Additionally, Lt Gen Alex Grynkewich stated that the operations have not yielded any credible reports of civilian casualties. Although the US maintains that several prominent Houthi leaders were killed in these strikes, the group has not verified these claims.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell reassured that while the US does not intend to initiate regime change, the military will persist with its efforts until strategic objectives are realized, stating that this campaign will be unyielding in degrading Houthi capabilities and safeguarding shipping routes. Over the weekend, the Houthis launched drone and missile attacks against the USS Harry S Truman aircraft carrier, with US fighter jets intercepting about 11 drones, but one ballistic missile fell into the sea far from the target.
The Houthis have alleged that at least five children were among the casualties resulting from the recent airstrikes in Yemen, a claim that remains unverified by independent sources. They further vowed to maintain attacks on shipping in the Red Sea until Israel lifts its blockade of Gaza. The Houthi group has engaged in numerous assaults against merchant vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November 2023, sinking two vessels, seizing a third, and resulting in the deaths of four crew members. While the Houthis retain control over Sanaa and the northwest territories of Yemen, they do not constitute the internationally recognized government of the country.
In conclusion, President Trump’s warnings signify heightened tensions between the United States and Iran amid ongoing Houthi aggression in the Red Sea. The Pentagon’s recent military actions reflect a commitment to protecting international shipping and degrading Houthi capabilities. The situation remains precarious as both sides issue statements reaffirming their positions, with the Houthis vowing continued resistance linked to larger geopolitical conflicts. The potential for further escalations underscores the complex dynamics at play in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
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