Yemen’s Houthis Resolve to Continue Attacks on Israeli Shipping in Red Sea

Yemen’s Houthis have pledged to persist with attacks on Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, rejecting U.S. and Iranian appeals to scale back. The group’s foreign minister emphasized their right to self-defense amidst escalating tensions, particularly related to the Gaza conflict. Despite warnings from European nations, the Houthis remain resolute in their actions, asserting autonomy from Iranian influence.

The Houthis in Yemen have indicated their intent to persist with attacks on Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, irrespective of U.S. military pressure or appeals from allies such as Iran. Houthi Foreign Minister Jamal Amer stated that the group would not ease their operations until the aid blockade in Gaza is lifted. The Houthis have resumed these attacks to demonstrate support for Palestinians, which they claimed began following the failure of Israel to meet their demands.

Amid escalating tensions, senior Iranian officials conveyed messages to the Houthis to reduce hostilities; however, Iran maintains that the Houthis operate independently. President Donald Trump warned that Iran would be held accountable for any Houthi actions. Amer emphasized that decisions regarding operations are made autonomously by the Houthis, and noted events are leading Yemen into conflict with the U.S., thus justifying their right to escalate defenses.

The situation has escalated since the Gaza conflict intensified, prompting the Houthis to launch over 100 attacks against shipping since November 2023. These initiatives were intended to be in solidarity with Palestinians during Israel’s military escalations in Gaza. Amer affirmed that the primary focus remains on Israeli vessels, with the U.S. actions prompting a necessary response from the Houthis.

Despite facing U.S. strikes on Houthi-controlled regions, many European Union countries have advised caution against further escalation. The absence of military intervention from Saudi Arabia or other Gulf states has been noted positively by the Houthis, suggesting a preference for continued neutrality to avoid becoming embroiled in the conflict. Amer warned that should any Gulf state engage militarily, the Houthis would retaliate accordingly, countering any offensive against them.

In summary, the Houthis in Yemen are firm in their intentions to continue targeting Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, citing their support for the Palestinian cause and their right to self-defense amid U.S. military actions. The situation remains complex with potential escalation in the region, particularly concerning interactions with Iran and Gulf states. A delicate balance persists as the Houthis seek to maintain their autonomy while responding to regional pressures.

Original Source: www.marinelink.com