Trump Warns Iran: US Will Hold You Responsible for Houthi Attacks

Former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that Tehran would be held accountable should Houthi rebels launch further attacks. Trump characterized the Houthi movement as acting on behalf of Iran, threatening "severe military punishment" against both the rebels and Iran itself.

Trump's remarks followed recent attacks by the Houthi rebels on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea. The rebels, who control parts of Yemen, announced they had targeted two Saudi tankers, claiming the vessels violated a declared blockade. According to the Houthi-controlled Saba news agency, missiles, cruise missiles, and drones were used in the attacks, resulting in fires on both ships. Approximately ten other vessels were reportedly forced to alter course.

The attacks have heightened tensions in the strategically vital Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a key chokepoint for global shipping. The Saudi Ministry of Transport emphasized that the attacks violate international law and the principle of safe commercial navigation.

Trump expressed disappointment with the Houthis' recent actions, noting that they had previously been behaving "very responsibly." The escalating conflict in the Red Sea intersects with broader geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran, raising concerns about the stability of global trade routes and energy supplies.