European leadership strongly condemned the recent attacks on commercial shipping routes.
"The attack on an oil tanker in the Red Sea is unacceptable, illegal and further inflames an already volatile situation in the region," said EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas.
"The Houthis must cease all actions that endanger international shipping and the lives of seafarers," Kallas said.
"Navigation must be unimpeded, in the Strait of Hormuz as well as in the Red Sea."
Regional experts noted that the maritime operations serve strategic interests across the wider conflict zone.
"From Iran's perspective, opening additional pressure points across the region gives it more leverage," said Ahmed Nagi, Senior Yemen Analyst at the International Crisis Group.
"The Houthis provide Tehran with influence over one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints," Nagi said.
Israeli defense officials confirmed preparedness as local authorities opened bomb shelters across several cities.
"If Iran attacks Israel, it will suffer a crushing blow," said Defense Minister Israel Katz.
U. S.
Central Command confirmed ongoing air operations aimed at military targets in Iran, while the U. S.
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House of Representatives passed a symbolic war powers measure requiring congressional approval for continued military actions.
