Trump Issues Dire Warning to Iran Over Houthi Attacks on Shipping Lanes

President Trump warned Iran of severe consequences unless Houthi attacks on shipping lanes cease. The U.S. military has intensified operations against Houthi targets in Yemen in response to threats against U.S. vessels. Iran denies any wrongdoing, while tensions in the region continue to escalate as the Houthis persist in their attacks.

United States President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that it will face severe consequences should the Houthi forces from Yemen continue their attacks on international shipping routes. He emphasized that Iran is now responsible for every hostile action undertaken by the Houthis, who have longstanding support from Tehran. This statement came in the wake of the Houthis targeting a U.S. aircraft carrier, coinciding with a significant U.S. military operation in Yemen.

The Pentagon reported launching strikes on thirty targets in Yemen, marking the most extensive military engagement in the region since Trump’s return to the presidency. In a post on Truth Social, Trump articulated, “Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN.” He further stated that Iran would “suffer the consequences” for their association with the Houthis.

Iranian officials denied any involvement in breaches of the UN arms embargo on Yemen and accused the U.S. of unfounded allegations. Iran’s UN envoy, Amir Saeid Iravani, criticized the U.S. assertions. Pentagon officials also noted that the American strikes targeted a broader array of Houthi infrastructures, with no credible evidence indicating civilian casualties, according to Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich.

The ongoing military operation intends to reduce the Houthi capability and secure maritime trade routes. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell characterized this initiative as a relentless campaign, emphasizing that the U.S. does not seek regime change in Yemen. In a separate incident, the Houthis had targeted the USS Harry S Truman with drones and missiles, with U.S. fighter jets successfully intercepting numerous threats.

Despite claims of civilian casualties, with Houthis stating at least five children were among those killed in the U.S. strikes, the BBC has not verified these reports. The Houthis have declared their intention to focus on Red Sea shipping attacks until Israel ends its blockade on Gaza. They have carried out numerous aggressive operations against vessels linked to Israel, the U.S., and the U.K., including sinking two ships and capturing another, which has contributed to rising tensions in the region.

President Trump’s firm stance against Iran reflects escalating tensions tied to Houthi aggression in the Red Sea. The U.S. military’s intensified operations in Yemen signify a critical response aimed at safeguarding international shipping lanes. Despite Iran’s denial of involvement in the conflict, the Pentagon’s strategic objectives underscore a commitment to counter Houthi threats and maintain regional stability without pursuing regime change.

Original Source: www.bbc.com