SANA’A: Yemen’s Houthi fighters have warned that they could target US interests and facilities across the region if Washington intervenes militarily in Yemen to support Saudi Arabia.
Houthi military adviser Abed Mohammed Al-Thawr told AFP that any US military intervention would cross a “red line” for the group.
He said the same would apply if the United States tried to take control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Houthis Issue Warning to Washington
Al-Thawr said the Houthis would fight the United States if US forces entered the Yemen conflict through naval operations.
He also warned that US airstrikes or air support for Saudi Arabia would lead the Houthis to consider American interests in the region as targets.
The warning comes amid reports that Saudi Arabia has asked the United States for support against the Houthis.
US media reports have also said that President Donald Trump considered possible airstrikes against the Houthis. However, Washington has so far avoided direct military action.
Bab el-Mandeb Strait at Center of Concern
The Houthi adviser further warned that US military action could lead the group to consider closing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to American warships.
The Bab el-Mandeb is a key maritime route between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It plays an important role in global trade and energy shipments.
Therefore, any disruption in the waterway could raise wider concerns over shipping and energy supplies.
Regional Shipping Risks Increase
The latest warning comes as fighting between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia has intensified.
As a result, concerns over maritime traffic and energy supplies have also increased.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman recently discussed the importance of safe and uninterrupted shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb and Strait of Hormuz.
The developments have increased attention on both waterways. They remain important routes for international trade and energy transport.
