Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned U.S. airstrikes on Yemen, labeling them a “crime that must be stopped.” His remarks highlight the ongoing conflict’s broader implications between U.S. forces and Iranian proxies. The Houthis threaten renewed attacks on shipping, raising concerns of further U.S. military action and regional instability.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has condemned recent U.S. military strikes in Yemen, denouncing them as a “crime that must be stopped.” In a video statement issued on Thursday, he criticized the attacks on the Houthi militia, asserting that such actions must be prevented amid escalating regional tensions, including renewed Israeli airstrikes on Gaza and threats from the Houthis against Israeli-linked shipping.

The current conflict in Yemen illustrates the broader power struggle between U.S.-allied forces and Iranian proxies. The Houthis’ recent assaults on shipping in the Red Sea, followed by U.S. retaliatory strikes, create a potential flashpoint for further destabilization of the Middle East. Khamenei’s comments indicate Iran’s ongoing support for the Houthis and showcase opposition to U.S. involvement in the region.

In his remarks, Khamenei accused the United States of facilitating Israeli attacks on Gaza, asserting that these actions were conducted with “U.S. permission, or support and green light.” He called for global solidarity among “freedom-seekers” against Israel during the Persian New Year. Additionally, Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the U.S. airstrikes, categorizing them as “war crimes” similar to Israel’s actions in Gaza.

U.S. officials confirmed that their strikes targeted and eliminated several high-ranking Houthi officials. However, the Houthi-run health ministry claimed that the attacks resulted in at least 53 fatalities and nearly 100 injuries. This marks the first military engagement in Yemen by the U.S. since the inauguration of President Donald Trump in January.

The Houthis have vowed to resume attacks on Israeli-linked vessels in response to Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza. They previously interrupted shipping lanes in the Red Sea following the onset of the Gaza conflict on October 7, 2023, although operations were briefly halted during a ceasefire.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens as Israeli airstrikes continue. Khamenei characterized these strikes as a “catastrophic crime,” holding Washington accountable for assisting Israel’s military endeavors.

Khamenei stated, “This attack on the people of Yemen, on Yemeni civilians, is a crime that must be stopped.” President Trump remarked on social media, asserting, “Tremendous damage has been inflicted upon the Houthi barbarians, and watch how it will get progressively worse — It’s not even a fair fight, and never will be. They will be completely annihilated!” Trita Parsi, of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, cautioned that Trump might find himself caught in an unnecessary war undermining his objectives in the Middle East.

As tensions rise, it is anticipated that the U.S. will persist in targeting Houthi military infrastructure. The renewed Houthi threats to disrupt Red Sea trade routes could prompt further U.S. military responses, increasing the risk of regional conflict.

The evolving situation highlights the intricate dynamics of U.S. and Iranian involvement in Yemen and the Middle East. Khamenei’s condemnation of U.S. strikes reinforces Iran’s support for the Houthis against perceived American aggression, while the U.S. endeavors to counter Houthi activities that threaten maritime security. The ongoing escalation emphasizes the potential for broader conflict, calling for close monitoring of developments in this volatile region.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com

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