Hegseth Warns Iran: Serious Consequences Await for Houthi Support

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warns Iran over its support for the Houthi group, stating there will be consequences. A recent incident involving the USS Harry S. Truman highlights the threats posed by the Houthis, contributing to rising tensions. Trump’s comments reinforce the accusation that Iran orchestrates Houthi attacks, emphasizing possible military responses.

In a strong warning directed at Iran, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized on Wednesday that the nation would face serious repercussions for its lethal support of Houthi militants. Hegseth’s remarks, showcased on social media platform X, highlight the U.S. awareness of Iran’s activities. He asserted, “We see your LETHAL support to the Houthis. We know exactly what you are doing. You will pay the consequences at the time and place of our choosing.” This firm stance reflects rising tensions in the region.

The urgency in Hegseth’s comments follows a recent incident involving the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. A Houthi-launched drone reportedly forced the carrier to take evasive actions, resulting in the loss of an F-18 fighter jet valued at $67 million, which fell into the Red Sea. This incident underscores ongoing challenges as U.S. airstrikes against Houthi targets continue for 47 days without respite.

Further intensifying the discourse, Hegseth retweeted a post from former President Donald Trump. The post, made on March 17, warned against being misled regarding the Houthis, branding them as “sinister mobsters and thugs” who are deeply despised by the Yemeni populace. Trump claimed that these attacks are orchestrated and armed by Iran, insisting that any retaliation from the Houthis would be met with overwhelming force by the U.S. military.

Trump’s post also addressed Iran’s purported role in supporting the Houthis, stating that the nation has not lost control over them, as it may claim. According to Trump, Iran provides not only weaponry but also financial aid and sophisticated military intelligence. The former president articulated a clear message: “Every shot fired by the Houthis will be seen as a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN, and IRAN will be held responsible, and suffer the consequences, and those consequences will be dire,” he warned.

Hegseth’s comments and Trump’s retweet signal a firm and assertive approach from the Biden administration on Iran and the Houthi threat. This could potentially lead to significant military or diplomatic actions aimed at curbing Iran’s influence in the region amid the escalating conflict. The ongoing situation, with its implications for U.S. foreign policy, remains closely monitored by defense analysts and officials.

In summary, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued a stark warning to Iran about its support for the Houthi group, suggesting that there will be consequences. The recent loss of a U.S. F-18 after a Houthi drone incident further compounds the urgency of this message. Former President Trump’s comments amplify the notion of Iran’s culpability, with both officials echoing strong sentiments against Iranian actions in Yemen. The situation is evolving, with potential ramifications for U.S.-Iran relations.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com