Khamenei condemns U.S. strikes on Houthis in Yemen

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has condemned recent U.S. military strikes on the Houthi militia in Yemen. He described these actions as a "crime that must be stopped" and called for an end to the attacks. Khamenei's statement, released on Thursday, expresses concern about the rising tensions in the region, especially following renewed Israeli airstrikes on Gaza and Houthi threats against Israeli-linked shipping. The conflict in Yemen highlights the ongoing struggle between U.S.-allied forces and Iranian-supported groups like the Houthis. The attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and subsequent U.S. airstrikes could increase instability in the Middle East. Khamenei's comments underscore Iran's support for the Houthis while criticizing U.S. military involvement. In his speech, Khamenei accused the U.S. of allowing Israeli actions in Gaza. He also called on "freedom-seekers around the world" to unite against Israel. Iran's foreign ministry labeled the U.S. strikes as "war crimes," echoing concerns about Israel's activities in Gaza. The U.S. confirmed that its recent strikes in Yemen killed several high-ranking Houthi officials. However, the Houthi health ministry claimed that at least 53 people died, with nearly 100 wounded from the attacks. This marked the first U.S. military action in Yemen since President Donald Trump took office in January. The Houthis, who align with Iran's objectives against Israel and the U.S., have vowed to escalate attacks on Israeli-linked vessels in response to the ongoing conflict. The situation is aggravated by the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with Khamenei calling Israeli airstrikes a "catastrophic crime." Responses to the escalating conflict vary. Khamenei emphasized the need to stop the attacks on Yemeni civilians, while President Trump declared significant damage to the Houthis and vowed their complete destruction. Some analysts warn the situation could lead the U.S. into a prolonged military involvement in the region. As tensions rise, the U.S. is likely to continue targeting Houthi military infrastructure. The renewed threats to disrupt Red Sea trade routes may prompt further U.S. actions, increasing the risk of a larger regional conflict.