17.03.2025 11:22
While the U.S. military operations in Yemen continue, a notable assessment has come from National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. Waltz stated that many Houthi leaders have been targeted and killed in the attacks, indicating that these operations in Yemen are different from those during the tenure of former U.S. President Biden.
Speaking on ABC News channel's "This Week" program, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz evaluated the U.S. airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. Waltz noted that "a large number of Houthi leaders have been targeted and killed" in the U.S. attacks.
"ATTACKS DIFFERENT FROM BIDEN'S ADMINISTRATION"
Waltz pointed out that these attacks are different from those carried out during former U.S. President Joe Biden's term, stating, "The difference here is, first, to pursue Houthi leadership and second, to hold Iran accountable."
"IRAN IS HELPING HOUTHIS CLOSE THE SEA ROUTE"
Waltz said, "It is Iran that targets not only U.S. warships but also global trade and helps the Houthis close the world's two most strategic sea routes."
ALL OPTIONS ON THE TABLE TO PREVENT IRAN'S NUCLEAR ARMAMENT
Recalling U.S. President Donald Trump's statements that Iran should not possess nuclear weapons, Waltz noted that all options are on the table to prevent them from acquiring these weapons. He argued that Iran's nuclear program includes not only enrichment but also missile systems and armament phases, stating, "Either they hand these over and verifiably give them up, or they may face a series of other consequences."
U.S. AIR STRIKES IN YEMEN
The Houthis announced on March 7 that they had given Israel a 4-day ultimatum to allow aid into Gaza, otherwise they would resume maritime operations against Israel. U.S. President Donald Trump announced on March 15 via his Truth Social account that he had instructed the military to launch a "major attack" against the Houthis in Yemen.
Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi stated that U.S. aircraft and warships would be targets for the Houthis, indicating that as long as they continue their attacks, the disruptions in maritime operations would also affect Washington. Iran-backed Houthis reported that 53 people were killed and 98 injured in airstrikes carried out by the U.S. and the UK in several cities, including the capital Sana'a.