Iran Refutes Allegations of Support for Houthi Rebels After U.S. Strikes

Iran denies aiding Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes ordered by President Trump. The airstrikes targeted areas in Sanaa in response to rebel attacks on maritime shipping. Reports indicate significant casualties among civilians. The Houthis have threatened further attacks, raising concerns over regional stability and U.S.-Iran relations.

On Sunday, Iran firmly denied allegations of providing support to Yemen’s Houthi rebels following a series of U.S. airstrikes ordered by President Donald Trump. These strikes targeted Houthi-controlled areas in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, in response to attacks on international shipping. President Trump emphasized the necessity of utilizing “overwhelming lethal force” to compel the Houthis to abandon their aggressive actions along crucial maritime routes.

Reports from the Houthi-run Health Ministry stated that the airstrikes resulted in the deaths of at least 31 individuals, including women and children, with injury counts exceeding 100. Damage from the strikes reportedly included the destruction of residential homes, raising international concern regarding civilian casualties.

The Houthis have a history of threatening maritime security, including missile assaults on Israel, which they claimed were in support of Palestinian actions amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza. While a temporary ceasefire was implemented in January, the rebels indicated a willingness to resume hostilities. They have previously targeted over 100 vessels, sinking two and causing significant disruption.

Iran has faced accusations from the U.S. regarding its alleged military support for the Houthis, with U.S. Navy forces intercepting Iranian-origin weaponry destined for the militant group. Gen. Hossein Salami of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard denied any involvement in the operational strategies of aligned militant groups, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged the U.S. to cease its military actions.

The airstrikes mark a continuation of U.S. military operations against the Houthis, which had previously received support from both Israel and Britain. This latest action represents the inaugural military engagement during President Trump’s second term.

In summary, Iran has categorically rejected claims of supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels in light of recent U.S. airstrikes in Sanaa. The attacks, ordered by President Trump, were aimed at addressing the Houthi threats to international shipping. The situation remains tense, with ongoing assertions regarding Iran’s influence and military assistance to the Houthis, as casualties from the strikes spark further international scrutiny. U.S. military actions signify a severe approach to regional security amid rising hostilities.

Original Source: apnews.com