Houthis Warn of Attacks on US Naval Forces Amid Rising Tensions
The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have issued a stark warning: if the United States formally aligns itself with Israel against Iran, they will resume targeting American vessels and warships in the strategically vital Red Sea.
Houthi Military Spokesman Issues Cautionary Message
In a prerecorded statement released on Saturday, Brigadier General Yahya Saree, the Houthi military spokesman, declared, “If America gets involved in attacking Iran alongside the Israeli enemy, our armed forces will focus their efforts on US ships and warships operating in the Red Sea.” This threat signals a dangerous escalation in regional hostilities, especially as the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies.
US Consideration of Military Involvement Stokes Regional Anxiety
Amid growing violence, US President Donald Trump is deliberating potential military engagement alongside Israel in the escalating conflict. Meanwhile, Iran has firmly called any such involvement perilous. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi underscored this concern during a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Turkey, stating, “It would be very, very dangerous for everyone.”
Key Strategic Targets and Casualties Escalate the Conflict
Since June 13, Israeli airstrikes have struck several Iranian nuclear and military sites, including underground facilities, along with targeting senior military leaders and nuclear scientists. These strikes have resulted in significant casualties, with a Washington-based Iranian human rights organization reporting at least 722 deaths, including 285 civilians, and over 2,500 wounded across Iran.
The underground Fordo uranium enrichment facility remains a focal point. Analysts believe it is only vulnerable to the most powerful US bunker-buster bombs, which highly factors into the ongoing US decision-making process. President Trump has reportedly delayed a final call on direct US military intervention by up to two weeks to weigh the consequences carefully.
Implications for US and Regional Security
The Houthis’ threat highlights the fragile balance in the Red Sea corridor, a critical passage for global shipping and military navigation. Resuming attacks on US naval assets could escalate tensions dramatically, potentially drawing the US deeper into the conflict and complicating already volatile Middle East geopolitics.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes remain on Washington’s next moves and the possibility of broader confrontation in the region.
