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The United States has accused Iran with playing a significant role in recent attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea orchestrated by the Houthi rebels.

The White House, citing declassified intelligence, asserts that Tehran’s involvement extends to providing weapons and tactical intelligence to the Houthis, allegations Iran vehemently denies. “We know that Iran was deeply involved in planning the operations against commercial vessels in the Red Sea,” stated Adrienne Watson, a national security spokeswoman.

This accusation comes amidst a series of drone and missile assaults by the Houthis on commercial shipping, disrupting major trade routes and prompting several companies to suspend transit through the Red Sea. The White House has presented evidence linking Iran’s KAS-04 drones to those used by the Houthis and similarities between their missiles.

Despite these claims, Al Jazeera reports that the Houthis have developed their intelligence capabilities, with US officials countering that these advancements are due to Iranian technology. The recent attack on a Liberian-flagged tanker, which was Israel-affiliated and bound for India, has further intensified concerns over regional security.

In response to the rising threat, the US has spearheaded the formation of a multinational force to safeguard vessels in the Red Sea, engaging over 20 countries. While the Houthis threaten retaliation against American interests, Tehran maintains its political support for the group but denies arming them.