Houthi Forces Pledge Retaliation Following U.S.-Led Strikes in Yemen
The militia, supported by Iran, denounces the air and naval attacks orchestrated by the United States, marking an escalation in the Middle East conflict. President Biden asserts readiness for further action if Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping persist.
Latest in Yemen Strikes: Updates on Recent Military Actions
In recent developments, Houthi forces, supported by Iran, have strongly condemned the military strikes in Yemen led by the United States. These strikes targeted numerous locations associated with the Houthi militia, prompting the group to vow retaliation. The Middle East is now on high alert for potential counterattacks that could further escalate the conflict in the region.
The strikes, seen as a significant escalation, were in response to Houthi drone and missile attacks in the Red Sea's crucial shipping lanes. The Houthi militia claims these actions support Palestinians facing Israeli bombardment in Gaza. Despite warnings from the Biden administration and its allies to cease ship attacks, the Houthi spokesperson stated that a response to the strikes was inevitable.
Even some U.S. allies in the Arab world expressed concern, with Oman, known for mediating talks with the Houthis, criticizing the strikes. The international community, including the UK, the Netherlands, Australia, Canada, and Bahrain, supported the U.S.-led effort, contributing warplanes, logistics, intelligence, and other assistance.
President Biden emphasized that the strikes aimed to convey a clear message that the U.S. and its partners would not tolerate attacks on their personnel or threats to navigation in vital commercial routes. Meanwhile, Israel began its defense at the International Court of Justice against accusations of genocide in Gaza, a case strongly denied by Israel.
In response to the strikes, Russia called for an emergency Security Council meeting, scheduled for Friday afternoon in closed consultations. The heightened tensions in the Middle East have also led to a significant rise in oil prices, reflecting concerns about the potential spread of the conflict.
Additionally, here are some key points:
1. Israel has initiated its defense at the International Court of Justice in The Hague in response to accusations of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Palestinians view this case as an opportunity for justice, while Israel vehemently denies the charge, arguing that it distorts the historical context of a nation established in the aftermath of the Holocaust.
2. The U.S.-led strikes in Yemen targeted radars, missile and drone launch sites, and weapons storage areas, as reported by anonymous American officials. The Biden administration clarified that the objective was to impede the Houthis' capacity to target the Red Sea, rather than targeting leaders and Iranian trainers, a move that could be seen as more escalatory. A Houthi spokesperson confirmed at least five of their fighters were killed in the strikes.
3. Russia has called for an emergency meeting at the Security Council to discuss the U.S.-led strikes. France, currently holding the Council presidency, has confirmed that the closed consultations are scheduled for Friday afternoon.
4. Concerns about the potential expansion of the Middle East conflict have led to a significant increase in oil prices. Brent crude, the global benchmark, experienced a rise of approximately 4 percent, reaching just over $80 per barrel. This spike reflects apprehensions regarding the broader impact of the ongoing tensions in the region.
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