During an appearance on ABC’s “This Week,” White House national security adviser Mike Waltz discussed the recent U.S. airstrikes in Yemen, which targeted and eliminated multiple leaders of the Iranian-backed Houthis. Waltz emphasized that these strikes were a significant departure from previous actions taken by the Biden administration against the rebel group, designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the Trump administration.
Waltz highlighted that the recent airstrikes were not limited in scope but were a decisive response that specifically targeted key Houthi leaders, with a focus on holding Iran accountable for its support of the group. He accused Iran of enabling the Houthis to carry out attacks on U.S. warships and disrupt global commerce, leading to logistical challenges and increased shipping costs worldwide.
President Trump has denounced the situation in Yemen as unacceptable, signaling a commitment to addressing the issue and restoring global commerce. The strikes are expected to be part of an ongoing effort and not a one-time event. Trump issued warnings to both the Houthis and Iran, cautioning them against further provocations and threatening severe consequences for any continued aggression.
In the interview, Waltz discussed the potential for U.S. military action against Iran, emphasizing that all options remain on the table to deter Iran’s support for militant groups like the Houthis. He underscored the sophisticated weaponry possessed by the Houthis, including air defenses and missiles, and reiterated the administration’s determination to hold both the rebels and their Iranian backers responsible for their actions.
Regarding Trump’s stance on nuclear talks with Iran, Waltz reiterated the president’s position that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons. He emphasized that all aspects of Iran’s nuclear program, including missiles and enrichment activities, are subject to scrutiny and potential consequences if Iran does not comply with international norms.
Waltz’s remarks underscored the administration’s commitment to addressing security threats in the region and holding those responsible for destabilizing activities to account.
We cannot allow the ayatollahs to have access to nuclear weapons, as it could lead to an arms race in the Middle East. Iran has been given a chance to prevent a radical regime from posing a threat to Israel and the world. President Trump’s focus is on achieving a permanent ceasefire in Ukraine, engaging with both Ukrainians and Russians to find a resolution. There is ongoing diplomacy to address concerns about ceding territory to Russia. The US is determined to pursue diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation of conflict.
