Hegseth Issues Stark Warning to Iran Over Houthi Support

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Iran of consequences for its support of the Houthis, citing a recent incident involving a U.S. fighter jet. Hegseth’s comments follow extensive U.S. airstrikes and a retweet from former President Trump reiterating this stance, framing Iran’s actions as direct responsibility for Houthi attacks.

On Wednesday night, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed a stern warning toward Iran, emphasizing the repercussions awaiting the nation due to its support for the Houthi terrorist organization. In a post shared on X, Hegseth stated, “We see your LETHAL support to The Houthis. We know exactly what you are doing.” He warned that the United States military’s capabilities should be taken seriously, adding, “You will pay the CONSEQUENCE at the time and place of our choosing.”

This warning comes on the heels of an incident involving a Houthi drone, which reportedly forced the USS Harry S. Truman, an aircraft carrier, to execute evasive maneuvers. Some analysts speculate that these maneuvers led to an F-18 fighter jet, valued at approximately $67 million, falling into the Red Sea.

The incident followed 47 continuous days of U.S. airstrikes targeting Houthi positions. The escalating tensions highlight the increasing threats posed by the Houthis, a group backed by Iran in a protracted regional conflict. Hegseth later retweeted a post from former President Donald Trump, from March 17, further underscoring the U.S. administration’s stance.

In that post, Trump stated, “Let nobody be fooled! The hundreds of attacks being made by Houthi, the sinister mobsters and thugs based in Yemen, who are hated by the Yemeni people, all emanate from, and are created by, IRAN.” He warned that if the Houthis continued their aggression, any retaliation would be met with “great force.”

The former president articulated the perception that Iran portrays itself as the victim of terrorists beyond its control, arguing instead they are orchestrating the violence. He concluded with an ultimatum, stating, “Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon, from this point forward, as being 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!

In summary, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has delivered a pointed message to Iran regarding its support of the Houthis, warning of consequences for further actions. The recent incident involving a U.S. fighter jet and ongoing military strikes against Houthi forces exacerbate tensions in the region. The remarks from both Hegseth and Trump emphasize the belief that Iran is orchestrating Houthi aggression and will be held accountable for its actions in the ongoing conflict.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com