Iran Urges US to Cease Airstrikes in Yemen Amid Rising Tensions

Iran’s Foreign Minister condemned US airstrikes in Yemen, calling for an end to violence against Yemeni people and rejecting accusations of Iranian support for the Houthis. The US justified its strikes as counter-terrorism while asserting accountability for Iran.

In response to the recent US airstrikes on Houthi fighters in Yemen, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged the United States to cease its attacks, emphasizing the loss of Yemeni lives. He declared on social media that the US lacks the legitimacy to interfere in Iranian foreign policy. Furthermore, he pointed out the extensive death toll of Palestinians and called for an end to what he termed as Israeli genocide.

On March 16, President Donald Trump described the US strikes as “decisive and powerful” actions taken against the Houthis, attributing their aggression towards American forces to Iranian funding. He characterized their acts as piracy and terrorism, vowing strong accountability measures against Iran should they continue supporting the Houthis.

Following the strikes, Houthi health officials reported at least 31 deaths and over 100 injuries, while vowing to retaliate by targeting Israeli vessels until the blockade on Gaza is lifted. Although the UK provided logistical support, it did not participate in the strikes, which were condemned by the Houthis.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baqai, condemned the US and UK actions, labeling them as severe breaches of international law. Iran recognizes the Houthis as Yemen’s legitimate government, though it frequently denies providing them with arms.

On the same date, Araghchi traveled to Muscat for discussions with Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi about the attacks. Major General Hossein Salami of Iran’s IRGC dismissed Trump’s allegations, asserting that the Houthis operate independently and do not require Iranian directives. He reiterated Iran’s accountability for its actions in the region.

In summary, the Iranian government has vocally condemned US airstrikes against the Houthis in Yemen, urging for immediate cessation and accountability. The US, under President Trump’s direction, justified its actions as essential defensive measures while attributing the Houthis’ aggressions to Iranian influence. The situation highlights ongoing tensions in the region, with Iran’s support for the Houthis remaining a focal point of international scrutiny.

Original Source: caspiannews.com