The U.S. administration has expressed strong concerns regarding Iran’s significant role in orchestrating assaults on merchant ships in the Red Sea. These insights were crucial for Yemen’s Houthi faction, enabling them to launch attacks on maritime targets. This revelation was made public on Friday by the White House.
Aligned with Iran, the Houthis have justified their assaults on commercial shipping lanes in the Red Sea as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, currently facing challenges from Israel. These aggressive maneuvers, involving drones and missiles, have compelled shipping companies to divert their routes, opting for lengthier passages around Africa’s southern extremity.
A White House national security spokesperson, Adrienne Watson, emphasized Iran’s extensive involvement in planning these maritime attacks. “Iran’s sustained support and encouragement of the Houthis’ disruptive activities in the area align with their longstanding behavior,” Watson stated.
Watson further highlighted the global nature of this issue, calling for a unified international response.
In contrast, Iran has consistently refuted any allegations of its involvement in the Red Sea attacks conducted by the Houthis.
Additionally, the United States recently initiated a 20-nation naval coalition aimed at enhancing the security of vessels traversing the Red Sea. Some participating nations have indicated that these protective measures will integrate with existing maritime agreements.
