Houthi Rebels Vow Continued Attacks on Israel-Bound Ships Despite New US-Led Coalition

The Houthi rebels in Yemen declared on Tuesday that the new US-led military coalition in the Red Sea will not deter their attacks on ships bound for Israel. This statement came from Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam, who emphasized their naval operations are in support of the Palestinians and are not meant to challenge any nation. Abdulsalam’s remarks were reported by the Houthi-controlled Saba news agency.

The spokesman criticized the coalition, claiming its formation by America is primarily to safeguard Israel and unnecessarily militarize the sea. The United States had announced the formation of a 10-nation coalition on Monday, aiming to curb Houthi missile and drone strikes on vessels navigating the Red Sea.

Abdulsalam warned of consequences for those seeking to escalate the conflict, asserting the Houthis’ right to back Palestine just as America supports Israel. The Houthis have intensified their assaults on commercial ships in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Their demands include an end to Israeli actions in Gaza and the provision of food and medical supplies to the region.

The Houthi rebels hold significant territory in Yemen, including the capital Sanaa and the strategic port city of Al Hudaydah on the Red Sea, through which up to 12% of global trade flows. The US-led coalition includes nations like Britain, France, and Italy, united to secure the Red Sea’s safety.