Houthi Attacks
DUBAI: The United States has conveyed its readiness to collaborate with Pakistan in addressing the attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi militia in the Red Sea. Following the Houthi-claimed missile attack on a Pakistan-bound container ship in December, the U.S. is in contact with Pakistani officials to ensure the secure transportation of ships.
Margaret MacLeod, the Urdu language spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, expressed hope that the Pakistan Navy, as a member of the Combined Maritime Force (CMF), would take measures to secure ship movements in the Red Sea.
MacLeod highlighted that Houthi attacks are affecting commercial activities of all countries in the region, emphasizing the need for support for “Operation Prosperity Guardian” under the CMF to counter Houthi-led attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. The U.S. and its allies recognize the challenges faced by the Yemeni people, and MacLeod clarified that the strategy of the new task force against the Houthis is defensive, responding to attacks on Houthi positions.
Regarding the non-involvement of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in “Operation Prosperity Guardian,” MacLeod stated that she is not the spokesperson for those countries but encourages all regional nations to join the task force against the Houthi rebels.
She emphasized that Houthi attacks impact the entire region, hindering the delivery of food items to countries, including Israel. In response to questions about weapons supply to the Houthis, MacLeod attributed support to the rebels from Iran, which also provides “effective intelligence” for targeting ships.
She called on the Iranian government to cease destabilizing actions in the Middle East, urging an immediate change in attitude. MacLeod emphasized that the common Iranian people are also affected by their government’s policies.
