Iran Denies Assistance to Houthi Rebels Amid U.S. Airstrikes and Tensions

Iran denies providing support to Yemen’s Houthi rebels following U.S. airstrikes ordered by President Trump. The strikes, which targeted Houthi positions in Sanaa, came in response to the rebels’ attacks on international maritime routes. Reports indicate significant casualties from the airstrikes, raising tensions further in the region.

On March 15, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a series of airstrikes on the Houthi-controlled capital of Sanaa, Yemen. The strikes were a response to the Houthi attacks on international shipping within a critical maritime corridor. Trump committed to employing “overwhelming lethal force” until the Iranian-backed Houthis ceased their hostilities against shipping lanes.

Following these airstrikes, Iranian officials once again refuted claims of assisting the Houthi rebels. Iran’s denial came amid warnings from Trump that Tehran would be held “fully accountable” for any actions taken by the Houthis. Reports from the Houthi-run Health Ministry indicated that the recent strikes resulted in at least 31 fatalities, including women and children, alongside over 100 injuries.

The Houthi militia has actively targeted vessels in the Red Sea and launched missile attacks towards Israel, justifying their actions as support for Palestinians amidst the Gaza conflict. Despite a temporary halt in their aggressions due to a ceasefire in January, threats of renewed attacks have emerged following Israel’s recent blockade on humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The U.S. has long accused Iran of providing military support to the Houthis, evidenced by seized Iranian-made weapons destined for the group. Gen. Hossein Salami, the commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, stated that Iran does not influence the operational policies of allied militant groups. Furthermore, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged the U.S. to cease airstrikes and asserted that the U.S. cannot dictate Iran’s foreign policy.

Historically, both the U.S. and its allies, including Israel and Britain, have conducted operations against Houthi positions, but this recent initiative is distinct as it was executed solely by U.S. forces. It marks the initial strike against the Houthis since Trump’s return to office in his second administration. Attacks on merchant vessels by the Houthis have resulted in significant maritime fatalities and damage since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023.

In summary, Iran has categorically denied its involvement in supporting the Houthi rebels amid U.S. airstrikes in Yemen. President Trump has pledged to apply severe military pressure until the Houthis cease their threats against international shipping. The situation remains tense, highlighting the complex interrelations among Iran, the Houthis, and the ongoing conflicts in the region.

Original Source: apnews.com