Trump Issues Dire Warning to Iran Amidst Houthi Attacks on Shipping Lanes

Trump has warned Iran to stop Houthi attacks on shipping, claiming Tehran is responsible for the violence. Following US strikes in Yemen, the Houthis have vowed to continue their assaults until Israel lifts its blockade of Gaza. The Pentagon’s recent military actions aim to neutralize Houthi capabilities and protect shipping lanes, amidst claims of civilian casualties and higher military engagement in the region.

On March 18, 2025, President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that Tehran would be held accountable for all attacks carried out by the Houthi militia on international shipping lanes. The urgency of the warning follows recent aggressive actions by the Houthis, including attempts to attack the USS Harry S Truman in the Red Sea, leading to significant US military responses.

In the wake of US military actions in Yemen, the Pentagon reported hitting thirty targets since Saturday, marking one of the largest military operations in the region since Trump’s return to office. The Houthis claimed that these strikes resulted in the deaths of 53 individuals, including five children.

On his Truth Social account, President Trump declared, “Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN.” He asserted that Iran would face severe consequences if the attacks did not cease. Additionally, Trump accused Iran of financing the Houthis, a claim that the Iranian government denies vehemently.

Iran’s UN ambassador rebutted allegations of violating the UN arms embargo on Yemen, condemning the US for what was characterized as unfounded accusations. While discussing the recent strikes, Pentagon officials indicated that the operations targeted a wider array of objectives compared to previous missions authorized by former President Biden, including key drone experts within the militant group.

Despite the Houthis’ claims of losses, the Pentagon reported that their military campaign aimed to diminish the Houthis’ operational capabilities while safeguarding crucial shipping lanes. Following drone and missile attacks against the USS Harry S Truman, US forces successfully intercepted eleven drones launched by the Houthis, while one ballistic missile also failed to reach its target.

The Houthis indicated that they would persist in their assaults on shipping in the Red Sea until Israel lifts its blockade of Gaza, claiming their operations primarily target vessels linked to Israel, the US, or the UK. Notably, since late November 2023, the Houthis have sunk two ships and captured another, resulting in the death of four crew members.

In summary, President Trump’s warning to Iran highlights the escalating tensions surrounding Houthi attacks on international shipping, emphasizing Iran’s responsibility in these conflicts. With extensive US military operations underway, the situation in the region remains volatile as the Houthis continue their threat to shipping lanes, demanding changes in the geopolitical landscape. This complex dynamic illustrates the intricate relationship between militant actions and international responses.

Original Source: www.gbnews.com