Trump threatens military punishment against Iran over Houthi tanker attacks

Published Jul 24, 06:45 AM UTC

President Trump has threatened to 'punish' Iran for recent Houthi attacks on tankers in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, stating that the U.S. will hold Iran responsible as the Houthis are a proxy of Iran. He warned of 'major military punishment' against both Iran and the Houthis if further attacks occur. Trump also declared that any damages to ships or cargo will be paid for using Iranian money held by the United States. The threats follow Houthi attacks on two Saudi tankers, prompting vessels to seek alternative routes. Two Chinese tankers reportedly passed through the strait unhindered. The Houthis, affiliated with Iran, declared a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, targeting tankers linked to OPEC's top producer. In response, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that no oil will be sold in the region if Iran's security is not ensured, and that the strait's security requires the absence of American forces.