United States NavyU.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kaylianna Genier, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz recently stated that the United States is prepared to broaden its military campaign in Yemen by targeting Iranian ships that are allegedly aiding the Houthi rebel group. In an appearance on ABC's This Week, Waltz emphasized the U.S. commitment to holding not only the Houthis accountable but also their backers in Iran. He warned that Iranian military assets, including ships providing support to the Houthis, could become legitimate U.S. targets.

"We will hold not only the Houthis accountable, but we're going to hold Iran, their backers, accountable as well," Waltz said. The U.S. has long maintained that Iran has been instrumental in aiding the Houthis, particularly through maritime operations. The U.S. government argues that this support presents a direct threat to international trade and security, particularly through the disruption of shipping lanes and trade routes in the region.

The Iranian government denies these accusations, asserting that the Houthis operate independently and without Iranian interference. However, U.S. officials remain steadfast in their position, stating that Iran's involvement in Yemen's ongoing conflict exacerbates instability in the region. This includes Iran’s role in providing intelligence, military training, and logistical support to the Houthi rebels.

Track live ships

Waltz outlined potential targets in this expanded military campaign, including Iranian ships near Yemen, which are believed to provide intelligence to the Houthis, as well as Iranian military trainers and other assets that support Houthi attacks. He made it clear that the scope of the U.S. military campaign would not be limited to the Houthis alone.

“If that means they’re targeting ships that they have put in to help their Iranian trainers, IRGC and others, that intelligence, other things that they have put in to help the Houthis attack the global economy, those targets will be on the table too,” Waltz stated.

The U.S. has previously accused Iran of supporting the Houthis in maritime operations, particularly through vessels like the Saviz and its successor, the Behshad. Both ships have been linked to intelligence-gathering and logistical support for the Houthi forces, further fueling tensions in the region.

As the situation develops, the Trump administration has signaled a firm stance against Iranian involvement in Yemen, indicating that any support provided to the Houthis, including through naval assets, will not go unchallenged. With the potential for military action against Iranian ships, the already volatile situation in the region is set to escalate further.

The U.S. strategy could have significant implications for the broader geopolitical landscape, especially concerning maritime trade routes critical to global commerce. The outcome of these developments remains to be seen, as diplomatic and military efforts continue to unfold.

ShipXplorer.com