Yemen's Houthi rebels have issued a fresh warning to the US, cautioning against any potential military escalation and reaffirming their commitment to continue targeting "Israel-related" commercial ships in the Red Sea.
The Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Sarea, conveyed this message via a statement aired on the rebel-run al-Masirah TV. He asserted the group's resolve to counteract any perceived aggression toward Yemen.
Sarea also delivered a warning to nations contemplating involvement in the US-led coalition aimed at safeguarding these ships, signaling their stance against such international coalitions.
In recent weeks, the Houthi faction has focused on targeting "Israel-related" cargo vessels in the southern Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Their actions have been linked to solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
An incident on November 19 involved the hijacking of a cargo ship, the Galaxy Leader, by the Houthis in the Red Sea. They redirected the ship and its crew to Hodeidah port.
The rebels have indicated a willingness to cease their attacks on ships if there is permission for food and medical aid to enter the Gaza Strip.
Following a series of Houthi attacks, the US recently announced the formation of a multinational maritime coalition aimed at securing ships passing through the Red Sea.
The Houthi rebels currently hold control over significant parts of northern Yemen, including the strategic Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, following their ousting of the Yemeni government from the capital, Sanaa.
(With Agency Inputs)
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