"Iran Criticizes US and UK Strikes in Yemen

Iran has denounced the recent US and UK military strikes against Houthi positions in Yemen, labeling them "arbitrary" and unlawful.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry regards the actions as violations of Yemen's sovereignty and international norms.

The airstrikes were in response to the Houthis' repeated assaults on Red Sea shipping lanes, which they claim support Palestinian rights. The coordinated coalition airstrikes aimed to reduce tensions and bring stability to the region, according to a joint statement from the US, UK, and their allies.

The attacks have disrupted major maritime trade routes, prompting shipping detours that affect global markets.

Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Nasser Kanani, criticized the strikes for potentially escalating regional instability and distracting from the situation in Gaza. Similarly, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian praised the Houthis for standing with Gaza, saying their efforts were admirable.

Mass demonstrations in Iran expressed solidarity with Gaza and Yemen, while protestors criticized the United States, Britain, and Israel.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, which started with militant attacks on Israel, has led to significant civilian casualties. Iran supports Hamas but denies direct involvement in the conflict.

The Houthi rebels, aligning with Iran against Israel and its allies, have controlled large areas of Yemen since 2014. The US claims Iran is implicated in Houthi maritime attacks, a charge Iran refutes. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi supports the resistance groups, emphasizing their autonomy in choices and actions."