US and UK Air Strikes Against Houthis Prompt Fierce Reaction
On January 13th, the US and UK conducted air strikes against Houthi rebel targets in Yemen, marking a serious escalation of foreign involvement in Yemen’s civil war. As per reports, the strikes were in response to Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea but have prompted warnings of a wider regional conflict.
Iran was quick to condemn the strikes, with President Raisi calling them “illegal” and Iran’s UN envoy warning the US and UK risk “drowning themselves” with the action. Iran’s foreign minister also discussed the situation with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov. Meanwhile, the Houthis vowed to respond to “aggression” with attacks on ports and facilities used by the US and allies.
Mounting Tensions Over Shipping Lanes and Israel-Gaza Conflict
The air strikes come amid rising tensions in the Red Sea area after the Houthis temporarily seized a Emirati-flagged ship earlier this month. Iran has supported the Houthis against the Saudi-backed government during Yemen’s war, but the US and allies are concerned Iran now has influence over a key global shipping route.
There are also fears the air strikes could impact negotiations to extend a UN-brokered truce in Yemen’s war, due to expire shortly.
Complicating matters, the Israel-Gaza conflict saw a flare up this week as well after months of relative calm. This prompted Iran’s leadership to vow stronger support for Palestinian militant groups and condemn US policy in the region.
International Reactions:
Russia
- Foreign Minister Lavrov discussed situation with Iran and criticized the air strikes with his Iranian counterpart
- Called for respect of international law and Yemen’s sovereignty
Iran
- President Raisi and Foreign Minister Abdollahian strongly condemned the attacks
- Warned the strikes threaten stability and safety of shipping in Red Sea
- Vowed to increase support for regional “resistance” against US and Israel
Houthis
- Houthi leader reportedly told Iran’s President the strikes will “unite Yemenis” against foreign interference
- Vowed to retaliate against facilities of “aggressor countries”
| Country | Reaction |
|---|---|
| Russia | Critical of strikes, called for respecting international law |
| Iran | Strongly condemned, warned of wider conflict, vowed more support for regional proxies |
| Houthis | Vowed retaliation against US and allied facilities |
What’s Next?
With tensions simmering on multiple fronts, many analysts warn the risk of a wider regional conflict is rising. However, Russia and others are urging restraint and respect for Yemen’s sovereignty. Much depends on how the Houthis respond to the air strikes and whether the US and UK continue or ramp up military action.
There are also efforts underway behind the scenes to extend Yemen’s truce and build on nascent peace efforts. The Iran nuclear deal likewise remains in limbo, with hopes a revived agreement could ease tensions.
In the near term, threats against shipping lanes and Iranian proxies seem poised to retaliate over the air strikes. But a full blown conflict serves no side’s interests. Ultimately compromises will be needed on all sides, no matter how far off they seem today.
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