Iran’s Supreme Leader Denounces U.S. Airstrikes as Evidence of Panic

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei condemned U.S. airstrikes on Houthis, framing them as panic over increased regional resistance. The strikes intensify tensions amid U.S. warnings to Iran and ongoing Houthi attacks affecting global trade. Notably, Iranian officials assert the independence of the Houthis while criticizing U.S. military actions as violations of international law, highlighting the complex geopolitical landscape.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has criticized the United States for its recent airstrikes on Houthi rebel positions in Yemen, claiming that the U.S. is acting out of “panic” due to rising resistance in the region. Khamenei asserted that the military actions demonstrate the growing power of the Houthis, as he expressed confidence that Yemen will ultimately prevail in its struggle.

The U.S. airstrikes represent a significant escalation in tensions, as these military actions followed ongoing Houthi attacks disrupting shipping in the Red Sea. This confrontation intensifies the existing tensions between Iran and Washington, particularly amidst efforts by President Trump to apply pressure regarding Iran’s nuclear program, which raises the potential for further conflicts.

Khamenei underscored that the U.S. and its allies are anxious about losing influence, framing their military actions as an acknowledgment of the Houthis’ strength. He vehemently stated on his social media account, “The nation of Yemen is definitely victorious. The only path is that of resistance,” emphasizing the shifting dynamics of power in the region.

The Iranian government maintains that the Houthis act independently, dismissing U.S. allegations of Iranian support. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that the U.S. lacks the authority to dictate Iranian foreign policy, while the Revolutionary Guard Corps Commander Hossein Salami reiterated that Yemenis possess their own national identity and policies. Furthermore, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei condemned the airstrikes as violations of international law.

In response to the ongoing hostilities, the U.S. conducted coordinated airstrikes targeting several locations, including the Houthi-occupied capital Sanaa. Reportedly, these strikes are intended as a warning to Iran, with the current administration adopting a more assertive military stance than its predecessor. Trita Parsi from the Quincy Institute criticized this approach, arguing that escalation is unlikely to yield different outcomes and emphasizing the necessity for diplomacy instead of military force in resolving these tensions.

Statements from various officials underscore the polarized views regarding the conflict. Araghchi stressed that the U.S. should not dictate Iranian policy, while Trump warned Iran of severe consequences should they continue their aggression. Parsi further argued that protecting shipping lanes is more effectively accomplished through ending the violence in Gaza rather than igniting new conflicts in Yemen.

As hostilities continue, the potential for further escalation in the conflict remains high. Iran’s diplomatic maneuvers, especially within the United Nations, may play a crucial role in shaping the subsequent developments of this ongoing crisis.

In summary, the recent U.S. airstrikes against the Houthis in Yemen have sparked significant condemnation from Iran, with Supreme Leader Khamenei asserting that these actions indicate American panic over regional resistance. The strained relations between Washington and Tehran are exacerbated by the tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions. As the situation unfolds, Iran’s independent position regarding the Houthis and its diplomatic strategies may prove influential in addressing the escalating conflict that continues to impact regional stability.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com