The leader of Yemen’s Houthi rebels has stated that attacks on U.S. ships will stop if former President Donald Trump intervenes. The announcement comes amid growing tensions in the region, with the Houthis intensifying their attacks on international shipping routes. In a statement made on May 10, 2025, Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi outlined the group’s position, emphasizing that the conflict could de-escalate with U.S. political action. This marks a significant development in Yemen’s ongoing maritime conflict with the United States.
Background of the Conflict
The Houthis, a group backed by Iran, have been in a prolonged conflict with Yemen’s internationally recognized government for several years. Tensions have escalated as the Houthis target U.S. and Saudi Arabian interests, particularly in the Red Sea. These attacks have disrupted global shipping lanes and raised concerns over regional security.
Al-Houthi’s latest remarks are seen as a potential turning point in the conflict, offering a possible diplomatic resolution. The U.S. has faced increasing pressure to address these attacks, which have caused significant damage to vessels in the area.
Houthi Leader’s Statement
In his speech, al-Houthi called for direct intervention from Donald Trump, suggesting that only the former U.S. president could influence the current situation. He mentioned that if Trump acts, the Houthis would stop their attacks on U.S. ships. He further stressed that the Houthis would respect any formal agreement brokered by Trump or his representatives.
This is not the first time the Houthis have made public appeals to foreign leaders for intervention, but this is the most direct mention of Trump’s role in resolving the conflict. It’s unclear what specific actions al-Houthi is referring to, but analysts speculate that it could involve a change in U.S. policy or a diplomatic initiative aimed at reducing hostilities in the region.
Impact on U.S. and Global Shipping
The ongoing attacks on international shipping routes have disrupted global trade, particularly in the Red Sea. U.S. naval vessels have been involved in defending commercial ships from Houthi missile strikes, leading to increased military presence in the region. According to a report by the U.S. Department of Defense, there have been several close calls involving Houthi missiles targeting U.S. ships in the past month alone.
The U.S. government has yet to respond to al-Houthi’s offer. However, sources within the Biden administration have indicated that there is no immediate plan to engage in direct talks with the Houthi leader.
Expert Analysis
Experts in Middle Eastern politics believe that this development could be a strategic move by the Houthis to leverage U.S. domestic politics. Dr. Sarah Williams, a political analyst at the Middle East Institute, noted that the Houthis understand the influence of former President Trump, especially given his strong stance on foreign policy during his tenure. This could be an attempt to create pressure on the Biden administration and seek an avenue for peace, but it’s uncertain whether Trump would intervene.
Geopolitical analysts warn that any U.S. action could have serious consequences, both in the region and on a global scale. Professor Hassan Al-Sayed from the University of Cairo remarked that a shift in U.S. policy could lead to broader implications for U.S.-Saudi relations and the broader Middle Eastern power balance.
Regional Reactions
The Saudi-led coalition, which has been fighting the Houthis since 2015, has condemned al-Houthi’s remarks. The coalition’s spokesperson, Major-General Ahmed al-Jubair, called the Houthi leader’s statement a dangerous political maneuver aimed at disrupting the fragile peace process. Meanwhile, Iran has cautiously responded, suggesting that the Houthis’ willingness to halt attacks could signal a shift toward dialogue.
What’s Next for Yemen’s Conflict
The future of the conflict remains uncertain. Despite al-Houthi’s promise to cease attacks, the situation is highly fluid, with both sides continuing military operations. The Houthis have been seeking international recognition and legitimacy, while the Yemeni government and its allies are determined to weaken the group’s influence.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has not yet issued a formal statement on the matter, but discussions are likely to intensify within diplomatic circles. The U.S. government will need to weigh the potential risks of engaging with the Houthis while considering broader strategic interests in the region.
