Houthi Official Claims US Offered Recognition to Halt Attacks

In recent developments concerning the ongoing conflict in Yemen, a senior official from the Houthi movement has claimed that the United States offered to recognize their government in Sanaa. This offer was allegedly made in an attempt to persuade the Houthis to cease their attacks, which have escalated in recent weeks. The remarks were made by Mohammed Al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi political bureau, during an interview with Al Jazeera Mubasher TV.

Al-Bukhaiti stated, "There is always communication after every operation we conduct." He elaborated that these communications often involve either threats or what he referred to as "temptations." However, he expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of such offers, suggesting that the US has "given up to achieve any accomplishment in that direction." In stark contrast, a US official dismissed these claims as "a total fabrication," emphasizing that Houthi statements are often misleading.

The backdrop to these claims is significant. Just a day prior, the Houthis launched a ballistic missile that reached central Israel for the first time, prompting a stern warning from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He stated that Israel would impose a "heavy price" on the Houthis for their actions. This escalation is part of a broader pattern, as the Houthis have been actively targeting not only Israel but also vessels they allege are linked to the Israeli state, all in the name of supporting Palestinians amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

Since November, the Houthis have reportedly damaged over 80 ships through missile and drone attacks, sinking two vessels and resulting in the deaths of at least three crew members. This aggressive stance comes in the wake of the war in Gaza, which began after Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, leading to significant casualties on both sides. According to Israeli sources, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and the hostage-taking of around 250 people. In retaliation, Israel's military actions in Gaza have reportedly killed over 41,000 Palestinians and injured more than 95,000.

The situation in Yemen is equally dire, as the country has been embroiled in a civil war since 2014 when the Houthis seized control of the capital, Sanaa, and ousted the internationally recognized government. The United States has since designated the Houthis as a terrorist group, further complicating the already intricate geopolitical landscape.

As the conflict continues to unfold, it raises critical questions about the future of both Yemen and the broader Middle East. The claims and counterclaims between the Houthis and the US highlight the complexities of international relations in a region fraught with tension. Understanding these dynamics is essential for grasping the ongoing humanitarian crises and the potential for future peace efforts. The world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can bring stability to Yemen and peace to the region.