The Houthi leader in Yemen issued a warning on Wednesday, saying that if Washington targeted the Iranian-backed group, they would attack US warships. Washington this week established a multinational force to fend off Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea.
Following years of conflict, the Houthis, who now control a sizable portion of Yemen, have been firing drones and missiles at foreign ships navigating the Red Sea since last month. They claim that these strikes are in retaliation for Israel’s invasion of the Gaza Strip.
The initiative, led by the United States, involves Washington and ten other nations, predominantly from NATO, conducting patrols in the Red Sea. The primary goal is to prevent and respond to potential future attacks by Houthi forces, which have prompted major global shipping routes to divert around Africa.
Abdel Malek Al Houthi issued a stern warning, stating, “We will not remain passive if the Americans contemplate further escalation and engage in reckless actions targeting our nation or initiating war against it.” He went on to assert, “Any attempt by the United States to target our country will be met with retaliation. American warships, interests, and navigation will become the focus of our missiles, drones, and military operations,” as conveyed in his televised address.
Also Read:
June Sees Saudi Arabia’s Oil Exports Reach Lowest Point in 21 Month
UAE Emerges as Primary Beneficiary of Saudi Arabia’s Production Reductions
