North Korea Demands End to U.S. Military Actions Amid Yemen Conflict

North Korea has called for the U.S. to cease military actions against the Houthi militia in Yemen, citing violations of sovereignty. Recent airstrikes by the U.S. against the Houthis signal growing military engagement, with the Houthis intensifying attacks in response. Analysts stress the Houthis act independently despite Iranian ties, complicating U.S. military operations and regional peace efforts.

North Korea has expressed a new demand to the United States, requesting an end to what it terms the “indiscriminate use of force” as recent U.S. military airstrikes target the Houthi militia in Yemen. Ma Tong Hui, North Korea’s envoy to Egypt and Yemen, asserted that such military actions violate the sovereignty of other nations and highlighted Pyongyang’s growing alliance with Tehran, Moscow, and Beijing on international matters.

These airstrikes come amid ongoing tensions with the Houthi rebels, who have resumed hostilities after a brief pause. Following a ceasefire breakdown in Gaza, the Houthis have intensified efforts to blockade shipments to Israel. President Donald Trump recently initiated military offensives against the Houthis, blaming them for piracy and violence that has severely affected the global economy.

North Korea, like Iran, is facing severe U.S. sanctions and remarked that these military actions would impede peace efforts in the region. Ma emphasized that the current Middle Eastern situation is deteriorating, with fewer prospects for a political resolution. Recent footage from CENTCOM depicted U.S. military operations, including the USS Harry S. Truman’s strike capabilities being demonstrated through targeted airstrikes on Houthi positions.

The Houthis have retaliated against U.S. forces, making multiple attempts to attack the USS Harry S. Truman with cruise missiles and drones. This confrontation has drawn scrutiny, as analysts noted that U.S. forces may be expending excessive and costly munitions against relatively inexpensive weaponry wielded by the Houthis. Despite pressure from their allies, Houthi leaders have indicated a steadfast commitment to their actions against Israel and its supporters.

Recent reports show that the Houthis have targeted over 130 commercial vessels in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, severely disrupting maritime traffic. The situation has deteriorated recently, with commercial ship transits declining sharply from previous years. Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War observed that the Houthis appear to operate independently, despite their alignment with Iran.

As U.S. and coalition forces maintain naval operations in the Red Sea under Operation Prosperity Guardian, they have successfully intercepted numerous threats. Lloyd’s List has indicated that shipping companies remain cautious and are hesitant to resume navigation through the Red Sea, amidst continued instability in the region.

North Korea’s demand for an end to U.S. military actions reflects its alignment with Tehran against U.S. interests. The intensified U.S. military response to the Houthi threat, characterized by significant military operations, raises concerns over the repercussions on regional stability and maritime trade. Despite these tensions, analysts underscore the Houthis’ autonomous stance amid their alliance with Iran, complicating diplomatic efforts in the region.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com