The White House reported U.S. airstrikes that killed multiple Houthi leaders in Yemen, warning Iran to cease its support for the rebels. National Security Advisor Waltz emphasized the use of force and reiterated that all options remain available to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The airstrikes resulted in significant casualties and highlight ongoing shipping threats in the Red Sea due to the Houthis’ conflict-related activities.
On Sunday, the White House announced that U.S. strikes in Yemen have killed multiple Houthi leaders, indicating that Iran is now under pressure to withdraw its support for the rebel group and cease attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz stated that these airstrikes targeted and eliminated key Houthi figures, reinforcing a robust stance against Iran’s involvement.
Waltz elaborated in separate interviews, asserting that the U.S. response was decisive, declaring, “We just hit them with overwhelming force and put Iran on notice that enough is enough.” He emphasized the potential military options available to prevent Iran from developing nuclear capabilities, reiterating that all measures would be considered.
According to reports from the Yemeni health ministry, the U.S. airstrikes resulted in at least 31 fatalities and over 100 injuries, marking a significant escalation in the conflict since President Trump’s return to office. The Houthis, backed by Tehran, have been waging attacks on shipping, citing their actions as retaliation against Israel over its conflict in Gaza.
Since October 2023, the Houthis have initiated numerous drone and missile attacks, affecting both U.S. warships and commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden—a vital maritime route for global shipping. Statistics reveal that U.S. naval vessels have encountered 174 attacks and commercial entities 145 assaults.
In a statement on Truth Social, President Trump warned the Houthis that their assaults must cease immediately, threatening severe consequences should they continue. Last month, Trump also reached out to Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, suggesting military options should negotiations fail, which Iran dismissed vehemently, insisting that they would not engage under threat.
Michael Waltz firmly stated that granting Iran nuclear capabilities is unacceptable, emphasizing the urgency of verifiable disarmament, and warned of serious repercussions should Iran pursue such paths.
In conclusion, the recent U.S. airstrikes have significantly targeted Houthi leadership, alongside an explicit warning to Iran regarding its support for these actions. The escalation in conflict highlights the broader implications for maritime safety in the Red Sea, with U.S. officials underscoring a strong commitment to preventing Iranian nuclear armament. The international community remains watchful as these developments unfold, determining both regional and global security dynamics.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
