Iran is striving to strengthen its “battered deterrence” following a general’s pledge to react “decisively and destructively” to any threats following U.S. strikes on Yemen’s Houthi rebels. An expert told Fox News Digital that General Hossein Salami, the leader of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, warned enemies of a forceful response from Iran if threats continue, according to Reuters. Salami also denied Iran’s involvement in Houthi attacks on U.S. Navy ships and commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

The expert, Behnam Ben Taleblu, director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Iran program, suggested that Iran’s boldness is a measure to boost its weakened deterrence and to urge President Trump to distance Iran’s actions from its proxies at a time when the regime is at its weakest. Ben Taleblu also noted that Iran is trying to downplay its links with the Houthis, despite having provided them with state-level military capabilities over a decade.

President Trump responded to these threats by stating any action by the Houthis would be regarded as a direct attack by Iran and would result in severe consequences. Trump accused Iran of being the leader behind Houthi attacks despite its claims of innocence, providing them weapons, funds, and intelligence.

The Biden administration has been criticized for possibly emboldening Iran-backed Houthis as Trump increases military strikes.

U.S. Central Command announced precision strikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets across Yemen on Saturday to defend American interests, deter enemies, and ensure freedom of navigation.

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/iran-trying-bolster-its-battered-deterrence-response-trump-threats-against-houthis-expert-says