The recent attack by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea marks a significant turning point in the crisis, according to a former US ambassador. Mark Wallace, CEO of United Against Nuclear Iran, warned that the self-defense actions of the US Navy, which sank three militia boats, are not enough to deter the Iranian terror proxy. He stated that the time for self-defense is over and the US needs to send a clear message to the Houthis and Iran that their Red Sea attacks are unacceptable.
Wallace emphasized that the Houthis are highly armed by Iran and have shown no signs of stopping their attacks. He believes the US should change its rules of engagement and make it clear that any proximity to US assets will result in the destruction of the assailants.
The clash between the US Navy and the Houthi rebels in the Red Sea is the first deadly confrontation between the two parties. The US Navy was forced to intervene after receiving distress calls from a Maersk container vessel that was under fire from the Houthis. The rebels then targeted the attack helicopters dispatched by the US, prompting the US to respond with force, sinking three ships and eliminating the entire crew.
The Houthi rebels have ramped up their attacks in the Red Sea, specifically targeting ships they believe are linked to Israel or bound for Israeli ports in solidarity with Hamas. Wallace asserts that these attacks are part of a systematic effort by Iran and its proxies to attack the US and its allies.
Retired US General Ben Hodges believes that the US taking direct action against the Houthi threat is long overdue. He urges the US to respond forcefully to crush the rebels. Hodges hopes that today’s events will serve as a lesson to the Iranian terror proxy and deter them from attempting further attacks.
In response to the deadly clash, the Houthi military spokesman threatened that the US would face consequences for their actions. Meanwhile, the UK’s Secretary for Defense, Grant Shapps, condemned the attacks and called for an immediate end to the Houthi campaign against merchant shipping.
The situation in the Red Sea has led to international concerns, with major shipping firms diverting vessels away from the region. The UK’s military is reportedly preparing to launch airstrikes against the Houthi rebels in coordination with the US.
The clash between the Houthis and the US Navy marks a major escalation in the Red Sea crisis. It is evident that the US is now in a shooting war with Iran, which carries significant consequences. The international community must recognize the bigger picture: without Iran, there would be no Houthis.
Images used in this article are sourced from F5mag.com.