Iran Warns of Retaliation Against U.S., Israel Amid Houthi Strikes

Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated following a series of warnings and military incidents related to Iran's alleged support for Yemen's Houthi rebels. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has repeatedly accused Iran of arming the Houthis and warned that Tehran will face consequences for actions against US interests, especially after Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the loss of an American fighter jet during maneuvers to avoid Houthi missiles. President Donald Trump reinforced this stance by publicly stating that any attacks by the Houthis would be attributed to Iran. Despite these accusations, Iran has denied direct control over the Houthis, with Iranian officials asserting that the group operates independently. Meanwhile, indirect nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran continue, aiming to address Iran's nuclear program and the possibility of easing US sanctions, though significant disagreements persist. The US has intensified military operations in the region, launching strikes against Houthi targets and deploying additional strategic assets.