US Commits to Airstrikes Against Houthis Amid Rising Maritime Tensions
The United States has initiated airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthis to halt their shipping attacks. The military campaign has claimed lives, including civilians, with ongoing threats from the Houthis to target US vessels. Iran warns against escalation, complicating the situation. UN officials urge restraint, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic approach to prevent worsening humanitarian conditions.
The United States has committed to continuing airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthi group until they cease their attacks on maritime vessels. In recent operations, the US reportedly struck targets in Yemen, resulting in the deaths of at least 53 individuals, including civilians. This marked the largest military action by the US in the region since January, with indications that the campaign could persist for weeks.
Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi declared that the group would target US naval vessels in the Red Sea if the strikes on Yemen continued. He stated, “If they continue their aggression, we will continue the escalation.” The Houthi political bureau condemned the US airstrikes as a “war crime,” while expressing resistance to what they view as external aggression.
In a response to US actions, the Houthis claimed attacks on the USS Harry S. Truman and other vessels through missile strikes and drone operations. However, US military officials noted the interception of 11 drones without any threats to US assets being confirmed. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth remarked that US military efforts would persist until Houthi threats against shipping were neutralized.
Tensions escalated as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio attributed the Houthis’ capabilities to Iranian support, asserting that responsibility for attacks against US shipping would extend to Iran. Conversely, Iranian officials warned that any escalation would prompt a decisive response from Tehran.
Global diplomatic efforts were called for by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, emphasizing the necessity for restraint and the cessation of military actions to avoid exacerbating humanitarian crises in Yemen. The US strikes caused civilian fatalities, including five children, highlighting the collateral impact on non-combatants in the region.
The ongoing conflict between the United States and Yemen’s Houthis signifies a critical juncture in Middle Eastern geopolitics, particularly concerning maritime security. The US has vowed to persist with military operations until the Houthis cease attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. Concurrently, Iran’s involvement complicates this dynamic, as global powers call for restraint to mitigate further humanitarian crises. The conflict’s implications on international trade and regional stability remain significant amid increasing military actions.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
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