Houthi Leader Vows Retaliation Against US and UK Air Strikes
In a bold statement to Al Jazeera Net, Houthi leader Ali Al-Qahoum has declared that the Ansar Allah group will respond decisively to the recent air strikes conducted by American and British forces in Yemen. These strikes, which targeted civilian facilities in the capital Sana'a and other regions, have been condemned as violations of Yemeni sovereignty. Al-Qahoum emphasized that the ongoing aggression from the US and UK will be met with a 'harsh and painful response.' He accused the two nations of attempting to undermine Yemen's support for Palestine amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon.
Escalation of Military Conflict in Yemen
The Houthi group reported that on Friday, their territories faced 18 air strikes from US and UK forces, marking one of the most intense bombardments in recent months. In retaliation, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that it targeted 15 Houthi positions, citing the need to counter Houthi attacks in strategic maritime regions. Al-Qahoum warned that the Houthis are prepared for a significant escalation, stating that their military capabilities are on the rise and that they are ready to defend their nation against foreign aggression.
Regional Implications of the Conflict
The ongoing military actions have wider implications for the region, particularly as the Houthi group has increasingly targeted vessels linked to Israel and has expanded its operations against US and UK ships following their military involvement in Yemen. Al-Qahoum's comments reflect a growing sentiment within the Houthi leadership that the conflict is not just a local issue but part of a larger struggle against perceived Western imperialism in the Middle East.
