Yemen’s Houthis Defy US Pressure Amid Escalating Tensions in the Red Sea

Yemen’s Houthis, led by Jamal Amer, have stated they will not reduce military actions against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea due to U.S. pressure, emphasizing their right to self-defense amidst recent U.S. military strikes. Iran’s attempts to mediate have been denied by the Houthis, who assert their independent decision-making. The situation remains tense, with potential retaliatory actions against U.S. forces in response to ongoing conflicts.

Yemen’s Houthi militants, represented by their foreign minister Jamal Amer, have asserted that they will not reduce their military actions in the Red Sea despite pressure from the United States and appeals from Iran. This stems from recent U.S. military strikes targeting Houthi-controlled regions, which resulted in significant casualties. Amer declared that the Houthis resumed their counteractions against Israeli shipping to express solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

Iranian officials have communicated a request to the Houthis to de-escalate tensions; however, amid ongoing conflicts, Hormuz denied receiving such messages regarding the U.S. strikes on Yemen. Amer emphasized that operational decisions remain independent from Iranian influence, suggesting that ongoing U.S. military actions warrant a strong defensive posture from the Houthis.

Both the Houthis and Iran are navigating a complex landscape shaped by a potential U.S.-Iran confrontation, especially following President Trump’s heightened sanctions against Iran since taking office again in January. Amer warned that retaliatory strikes against U.S. forces, such as targeting the USS Truman, remain a possibility, indicating a volatile security situation in the region.

The Houthis claim their campaigns against shipping are specifically directed at Israeli vessels, launching over 100 attacks since November 2023, coinciding with the Gaza conflict escalation. Despite seeking assurances to European nations that their operations target only Israeli ships, they accuse the U.S. of broadening the conflict.

Amer pointed out that Gulf states and Saudi Arabia have remained largely neutral in the conflict to date, which he indicated may prevent further escalation from their side. He asserted that any military involvement from neighboring states would provoke a strong response from the Houthis, as they strive to maintain their operational strategy focused on Israeli targets.

The ongoing situation in Yemen illustrates the Houthis’ commitment to their military strategy despite external pressures. Their foreign minister’s statements reveal a determination to continue operations targeting Israeli shipping while maintaining a defensive posture against U.S. actions. The complex relationship with Iran suggests independence in their decision-making process, and potential retaliation against U.S. forces remains a factor in the escalating conflict.

Original Source: kathmandupost.com