Iraqi PM Advocates for Dialogue Amidst US Airstrikes on Yemen’s Houthis

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani called for dialogue and de-escalation amid US airstrikes in Yemen that killed 53. His phone conversation with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation against IS. The Houthi group’s leader threatened further retaliation if US strikes persist, labeling the attacks a war crime, while Moscow urged an immediate cessation of hostilities.

In light of recent tensions due to US airstrikes on Yemen’s Houthi group, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani has urged for de-escalation and dialogue as effective means for resolving crises in the Middle East. His comments followed discussions with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, where al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to addressing regional challenges through peaceful negotiations.

During their conversation, Hegseth provided updates on military operations in Yemen, asserting that the US will maintain its actions until the Houthi group ceases its attacks on US forces and ends disruptions to navigation in the Red Sea. Both officials emphasized the importance of ongoing security cooperation within the US-led international coalition aimed at combating the Islamic State (IS) extremist group.

Their discussions also touched upon regional security concerns, especially concerning Syria, where both leaders expressed their resolve to prevent IS from becoming a threat. Following the strikes that allegedly resulted in 53 fatalities, the Houthi leader warned that retaliatory measures would be taken against US vessels if attacks on Yemen continued.

The Houthis labeled the US airstrikes as a “war crime,” and Moscow called for an end to the military actions. Furthermore, the Houthis claimed they targeted the USS Harry S. Truman and its accompanying warships as an act of retaliation, indicating the potential for further military escalation.

The recent exchange between Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth highlights the urgent need for diplomatic dialogue amidst rising tensions caused by US airstrikes in Yemen. The situation underscores a critical juncture in regional security dynamics, with both the US and Houthi forces exhibiting significant military posturing. Iraq’s commitment to peaceful solutions illustrates a key approach to addressing ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com