Iran Allegedly Urging Houthis to Target Red Sea Shipping, According to European Sources

European officials report that Iran is encouraging the Houthi militant group to prepare for potential attacks on maritime traffic in the Red Sea and near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This action would be contingent on any further escalation by the United States in its conflict with Iran. The Houthis, who are based in Yemen and receive support from Iran, are reportedly considering more aggressive measures following their recent ballistic missile launches toward Israel. However, there are reportedly disagreements within the Houthi leadership regarding the level of aggression, which contributed to the group's delayed entry into the broader regional conflict. In a recent statement, the Houthis declared they would continue military operations until attacks by the US and Israel on Iran and allied groups like Hezbollah cease, but they did not explicitly threaten to target commercial vessels. Meanwhile, US and Saudi officials have conveyed to European allies their assessment that the Houthis currently wish to avoid further escalation and attacks on American and Saudi interests. The Saudi government and White House spokespeople did not provide immediate comments on these reports. Such maritime attacks could significantly disrupt global energy markets.