Khamenei says Yemen’s Houthis act independently, warns against US action

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated on Friday that Tehran does not require proxies in the region, asserting that the Houthis in Yemen, who are among the groups aligned with Iran, operate based on their own interests.

U.S. President Donald Trump remarked on Monday that he would hold Iran accountable for any actions taken by the Houthis, coinciding with his administration’s escalation of the largest U.S. military operation in the Middle East since his return to office.

Historically, Iran has supported various groups in the region that identify themselves as part of the “Axis of Resistance” against Israel and U.S. influence. This coalition includes Hamas, Hezbollah from Lebanon, and several Shi’ite militia groups in Iraq.

Khamenei criticized the American perspective, stating, “They make a big mistake by labeling regional resistance centers as Iranian proxies. What does proxy even mean?” He emphasized that “The Yemeni nation has its own motivations, and the resistance groups in the region are driven by their own goals. Iran does not require proxies.”

He further noted that while “they issue threats,” Iran has never instigated a conflict. However, he warned that if anyone acts with hostility, they will face significant repercussions.

Experts on Yemen, where the Houthis have gained control amid years of civil strife, suggest that the group is primarily driven by domestic issues and its support base.