Yemen’s Houthi rebels condemned Israel’s air strikes on Gaza, promising to increase military support for Hamas. They reported new threats to Israeli shipping in the Red Sea and reacted to recent U.S. air strikes, claiming fatalities among the population. Their past actions significantly disrupted global shipping routes, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions in the region.
Yemen’s Houthi rebels issued a condemnation on Tuesday regarding Israel’s recent strikes on Gaza, pledging to enhance their operations in support of Hamas. In a formal statement, the Houthis’ supreme political council declared, “We condemn the Zionist enemy’s resumption of aggression against the Gaza Strip.” They emphasized their commitment, stating, “The Palestinian people will not be left alone in this battle, and Yemen will continue its support and assistance, and escalate confrontation steps.”
The health ministry in Gaza, controlled by Hamas, reported that the death toll from Israel’s most intense military actions had reached a minimum of 330 since the truce began. The Houthis, aligned with Iran’s “axis of resistance” against the United States and Israel, previously launched numerous drone and missile strikes targeting shipping routes and Israeli territory during the Gaza conflict, asserting solidarity with the Palestinians.
This military campaign significantly disrupted a crucial maritime route that typically accommodates around 12 percent of global shipping, compelling numerous shipping companies to reroute around southern Africa at increased costs. After a pause in their attacks corresponding with a ceasefire in January, the Houthis recently threatened to resume hostilities unless Israel lifts its aid blockade against Gaza.
Following U.S. air strikes over the weekend, which the Houthis claimed resulted in 53 fatalities, Washington pledged to utilize “overwhelming lethal force” to mitigate the threats posed to Red Sea shipping operations by Houthi forces. The Houthis further announced their third attack on American naval vessels within a 48-hour timeframe in the northern Red Sea.
In summary, the Houthis have condemned Israel’s military actions against Gaza and threatened to intensify their military operations in response. The implications of their threats on regional shipping and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza underscore the complex dynamics at play in this conflict. The situation remains precarious as international forces respond to these developments.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
