Trump: If Houthis Block the Red Sea, the U.S. Will Take Action
On July 21, Xinhua News Agency reported from Washington (reporters Huang Qiang and Xu Jianmei) that U.S. President Trump stated during a meeting at the White House with visiting Lebanese President Aoun that the United States would take action if the Houthi forces in Yemen block the Red Sea.
When discussing the possibility of the Houthi forces blocking the Red Sea, Trump said that this has not happened yet, "but if it does happen, we will take action to handle it."
The Houthi forces in Yemen announced on the 20th that they would implement a "maritime blockade" against Saudi Arabia, effective immediately. The Saudi-led coalition subsequently stated that it has taken measures to ensure the safe passage of member countries' vessels through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and will firmly respond to any threats from the Houthi forces.
Regarding the situation in Lebanon, Trump said he is willing to engage in dialogue with Hezbollah and will discuss aid to Lebanon with Aoun, coordinating the involvement of other parties in the assistance.
U.S. President Trump stated that the U.S. will take action if Houthi forces block the Red Sea. The Houthis announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, prompting the Saudi-led coalition to enhance security measures for shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Trump also expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with Hezbollah regarding Lebanon's situation.
- President Trump warned of U.S. action if Houthi forces block the Red Sea.
- Houthi forces announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia.
- The Saudi-led coalition is taking measures to protect shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
- Trump expressed willingness to dialogue with Hezbollah regarding Lebanon's situation.