Iran denounces US, UK strikes in Yemen

Iran has condemned the military strikes carried out by the United States and the United Kingdom on several Yemeni cities.

Tehran’s foreign ministry spokesman, Nasser Kanani, characterized the strikes against Tehran-backed Huthi rebels as “arbitrary” and a “violation” of international law.

The overnight attacks followed weeks of missile and drone assaults by Huthi forces on ships in the Red Sea, claiming solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

The joint statement from the US and its allies emphasized their goal to “de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea.”

The Huthi attacks have disrupted vital maritime routes, prompting some companies to suspend passage through the affected area.

Kanani warned that such actions “will have no result other than fueling insecurity and instability in the region,” diverting attention from the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

In a plea to the international community, Kanani urged proactive measures “to prevent the spread of war.”

Meanwhile, Iran witnessed hundreds rallying in support of Gaza and Yemen after Friday prayers, with chants against the US, UK, and Israel.

As tensions escalate, Iran, a supporter of Hamas, which is engaged in conflict with Israel, denied direct involvement in the attacks.

The Israel-Hamas war, ongoing since October 7, has claimed approximately 1,140 lives in southern Israel, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures.

Israel’s relentless military campaign in Gaza, resulting in over 23,700 deaths, mostly civilians, has prompted warnings from Iran about the potential for a widening conflict.

Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian previously stated that the war’s intensity made its expansion “inevitable.”

Yemen’s Huthi rebels, aligned with Iran in the “axis of resistance” against Israel and its allies, seized Sanaa in 2014 and control significant portions of the country.

While the US alleges Iran’s deep involvement in Huthi maritime attacks, Tehran vehemently denies the claim.

President Ebrahim Raisi emphasized Iran’s duty to support resistance groups, asserting their independence in opinion, decision, and action.