Iran Accused of Playing Major Role in Red Sea Attacks on Commercial Vessels

According to the White House, Iran played a significant role in planning operations against commercial vessels in the Red Sea, providing critical intelligence to the Yemeni Houthi movement for targeting ships.

The Iran-backed Houthis, who claim to be supporting Palestinians in Gaza, have used drones and missiles to attack commercial shipping in the Red Sea, leading to route changes for ships around Africa’s southern tip.

White House national security spokeswoman Adrienne Watson stated, “We know that Iran was deeply involved in planning the operations against commercial vessels in the Red Sea. This is consistent with Iran’s long-term material support and encouragement of the Houthis’ destabilizing actions in the region.”

Watson also emphasized the need for collective action to address this international challenge.

Iran has denied any involvement in the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.

Last week, the U.S. announced a naval coalition of 20 countries aimed at protecting vessels from attacks in the Red Sea. Some participating countries have indicated that their efforts to protect commercial traffic will be part of existing naval agreements.