Jamal Amer, the Houthi foreign minister, announced that Yemen is at war with the U.S. following airstrikes and warned Gulf states to remain neutral. Despite pressure from the U.S. and Iran, the Houthis vowed to attack Israeli-linked ships in retaliation for aid blockades to Gaza. The Pentagon has clarified its intentions, stating it does not seek to overthrow the Houthi regime, but will cease bombing once the Houthis stop their attacks.
The foreign minister of the Houthi movement, Jamal Amer, declared that Yemen is effectively at war with the United States following the initiation of U.S. airstrikes in Yemen. Amer emphasized that escalation is likely and warned Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, to maintain neutrality in the conflict. Despite American military actions, he reiterated the Houthi commitment to attack Israeli-linked vessels as retaliation for the blockade of Gaza aid.
In a recent interview, Amer noted that Iran, the Houthi’s principal ally, had communicated twice urging a de-escalation of tensions. Nevertheless, he refuted any idea that the Houthi decisions were dictated by Iran, asserting their autonomy in the matter. The Houthis have resumed strikes on Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea and are unwavering in their stance unless the Gaza aid checkpoints are secured.
Amer acknowledged receiving calls from various parties asking to ease the tensions but insisted on the Houthi’s right to self-defense against U.S. actions. He accused the U.S. of exacerbating the situation due to their military response, reiterating that their targets have primarily been linked to Israeli interests only. He praised the Gulf states’ current neutrality but issued a dire warning against military intervention, which would prompt a robust Houthi defense.
President Donald Trump accused Iran of supplying resources to the Houthis despite their denials, stating that any attacks by the Houthis from now on would be viewed as directly sanctioned by Iran. He warned of severe repercussions for any further aggression and reinforced this message through his administration’s spokesperson. Following these developments, Houthi strikes on international maritime activities have significantly disrupted shipping routes, increasing operational costs dramatically.
Upon the commencement of the U.S. bombing campaign, President Trump threatened the Houthis, encapsulating the tension with the remark that “hell” awaited them. Following this, some senior Houthi figures reportedly experienced casualties. The Pentagon later clarified its position, indicating that the U.S. is not aiming to destabilize the Houthi government but will cease operations once the group halts its attacks.
In conclusion, the current situation in Yemen has escalated to a point where the Houthis are openly declaring war against the U.S., amid increasing tensions and military actions. Jamal Amer’s statements reveal a firm commitment to retaliatory strikes against Israeli-involved vessels, stressing perceived autonomy from Iranian influence. The ongoing U.S. military campaign adds further complexity, with significant implications for regional stability and maritime trade. The response of Gulf states remains critical in influencing the course of this conflict, particularly should military intervention occur.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
