Trump Administration’s National Security Adviser Issues Warning to Iran Following Strikes on Houthis

On Sunday, Mike Waltz, Trump’s National Security Adviser, warned Iran following U.S. airstrikes in Yemen that targeted Houthi leaders. The strikes resulted in multiple casualties and were a direct response to Houthi attacks on shipping. Trump vowed to hold Iran accountable for supporting the Houthis and suggested all military options remain available against Iran. Iranian officials condemned the strikes, escalating tensions in U.S.-Iran relations.

On Sunday, Mike Waltz, the National Security Adviser to former President Donald Trump, provided a stark warning to Iran while discussing U.S. airstrikes in Yemen that targeted Houthi rebels. Speaking on ABC News’ “This Week,” Waltz revealed that these strikes effectively eliminated several Houthi leaders and highlighted Iran’s pivotal role in supporting these rebels. This military action was a response to the Houthi’s attacks on maritime shipping in the Red Sea.

Waltz was asked how the current administration’s strikes differed from those of the Biden administration. He asserted that the Trump administration employed a strategy focused on removing Houthi leadership and holding Iran accountable. The airstrikes resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating at least 31 fatalities, prompting threats of retaliation from the Houthis.

President Trump took to social media, emphasizing that attacks on U.S. vessels would be met with intolerance and demanding Iran cease its support for the Houthis immediately. Waltz confirmed that the Trump administration considered all military options against Iran, asserting the necessity for Iran to comprehend the gravity of the situation and the unacceptable level of support provided to the Houthis.

Waltz indicated that should Iranian involvement escalate, including the deployment of assets or personnel supporting the Houthis, those would also be targeted. The U.S. Central Command elaborated on the airstrikes, which were described as precision strikes aimed at safeguarding American interests and re-establishing freedom of navigation in crucial shipping routes.

The Houthis reported on their end that children were among the casualties and warned of repercussions for the U.S. actions. Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, condemned the U.S. airstrikes, declaring them a violation of international law. Iran’s Foreign Ministry criticized Washington’s policy as an infringement upon Yemen’s sovereignty.

Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell pointed out the significant frequency of Houthi attacks on commercial and military vessels, citing over 300 incidents since 2023. These operations jeopardized a vital maritime passage, prompting companies to seek longer routes, thereby increasing shipping costs. Amid escalating tensions, Hamas also condemned the U.S. airstrikes, labeling them as a breach of international law.

President Trump’s commentary regarding the Houthis was forceful, promising severe consequences should further attacks occur, emphasizing an unwavering stance against threats to American interests and shipping lanes. Meanwhile, diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Iran remain strained, particularly regarding nuclear negotiations, with Trump reportedly seeking to restart talks despite Iran’s rejection of such initiatives. Waltz reiterated that all options were available to ensure Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons, stressing the threat posed by a nuclear-capable Iran in the region.

The administration’s unwavering commitment and military readiness evoke a sense of urgency regarding U.S. foreign policy towards Iran and its proxies, underlining the potential for successful negotiations or escalated conflict in the region.

In summary, Mike Waltz’s statements underscore the Trump administration’s aggressive stance on Iran and its support for the Houthis following recent U.S. airstrikes in Yemen. These strikes target Houthi leadership and serve as a strong warning to Iran regarding its involvement with the rebel group. As tensions escalate, the potential for military action remains high, and the U.S. aims to assert its interests in the region decisively. The seriousness of this situation emphasizes the importance of diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and maintain regional stability.

Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk