The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have issued a stark warning, threatening to attack any U.S. ships that come within 1,000 miles of Yemen. This declaration follows a series of intense U.S. airstrikes ordered by President Donald Trump targeting Houthi positions in Yemen. The Houthis claim responsibility for attacking the USS Harry Truman and have banned U.S. vessels from strategic maritime regions, including the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden. The U.S. Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, has committed to an “unrelenting” missile campaign to ensure freedom of navigation and deter Houthi threats, potentially extending actions to Iranian support elements for the Houthis. This escalation reflects broader geopolitical tensions, notably U.S.-Iran relations and regional effects of the Israel-Hamas war.
Iran-Backed Houthis Threaten U.S. Ships Amid Escalating Tensions
