World · India Bureau
Houthis warn nations against backing Saudi Arabia in regional tensions
Yemen's Houthi movement has issued a stern warning to other countries against supporting Saudi Arabia, while signaling restraint toward American vessels. The group said its objective is ensuring safe maritime passage rather than closing the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
LSN India ·
The Iran-aligned Houthi movement has threatened nations that align themselves with Saudi Arabia, marking an escalation in rhetoric amid ongoing regional tensions. Houthi leader Mohammed al-Bukhayti conveyed the warning while also attempting to project a more measured stance on maritime operations in the strategically vital Red Sea corridor.
In a significant shift in messaging, al-Bukhayti stated that the group does not intend to attack American vessels and has no plans to completely seal the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, one of the world's most critical shipping lanes. Instead, the Houthi leader framed the movement's objectives around ensuring secure navigation through the waterway.
According to al-Bukhayti, indirect communications have taken place between the Houthis and the United States, with talks continuing between the two sides. The disclosure of ongoing dialogue represents a potential opening for de-escalation in a region already marked by heightened military tensions.
The Houthis have previously conducted attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, claiming operations in solidarity with Palestinians amid the broader Middle East conflict. The group's latest statements suggest it may be calibrating its approach, though the simultaneous warning to Saudi Arabia's allies indicates unresolved regional disputes continue to simmer.