The United States intensified economic pressure on Yemen’s Houthis with new sanctions, escalating tensions as the group continues missile and drone attacks on Israel. The penalties target key individuals, including Hashem al-Madani, the Sanaa central bank governor, accusing them of facilitating weapons acquisition. This development aligns with Washington’s efforts to disrupt Houthi military campaigns amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Sanctions Target Houthi Finances
The US Treasury Department described al-Madani as a critical link in funding Houthi operations, allegedly channeling resources from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. These sanctions freeze assets in the US and prohibit Americans from financial dealings with the individuals and entities involved. According to Treasury official Bradley Smith, the measures aim to block Houthi efforts to secure revenue for destabilizing activities.
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Escalation Between Houthis and Israel
The sanctions follow Israeli airstrikes in Yemen, including attacks on Sanaa power stations, which reportedly killed nine civilians. These strikes came in response to Houthi missile launches targeting Tel Aviv. The group, formally known as Ansar Allah, declared its actions a demonstration of solidarity with Gaza, where Israel’s military has killed over 45,000 people since the war began.
Abdel-Malik al-Houthi, the group’s leader, reaffirmed their commitment to confront Israel, stating, “We are at war and will not back down.” Shortly after, the Houthis launched another drone strike, signaling readiness for a prolonged conflict.
Regional Alliances Strengthen
The Houthis’ actions have garnered praise from Palestinian resistance groups. Hamas’s Qassam Brigades commended Yemen’s role in escalating pressure on Israel, while Islamic Jihad highlighted the missile strikes as a powerful message of solidarity. Hezbollah also condemned the Israeli bombings in Yemen and called for united resistance against ongoing aggression.
US and Allies Respond to Red Sea Threats
The Houthis’ attacks extend beyond Israel, targeting Red Sea shipping lanes. In response, US and UK forces have conducted airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. Washington also designated the Houthis as “specially designated global terrorists,” aiming to choke their financial networks.
Challenges for the Houthis
Despite intensified military campaigns and economic sanctions, the Houthis remain undeterred. They continue to escalate attacks, portraying themselves as key players in the broader resistance against Israel. However, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken suggested that the group may face isolation, especially after setbacks suffered by other Iran-allied forces, including Hezbollah.
A Growing Conflict with No Resolution in Sight
As tensions rise, the Houthis remain defiant, with their escalating attacks drawing global attention. While US sanctions and military responses aim to weaken the group’s capabilities, their resilience and continued solidarity with Gaza reflect a prolonged, unresolved conflict.
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