The threat follows recent military advances by Houthi forces along Yemen's Red Sea coast, taking control of key positions near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait—a vital maritime chokepoint for global oil shipments and international trade. In response, Saudi Arabia has sought U.S. and international military support to counter the escalation and secure the waterway, especially as Riyadh's energy exports face pressure following heightened regional tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Al-Thawr declared that any U.S. military involvement, including naval operations or airstrikes, would cross a "red line," asserting that the group is fully prepared to strike U.S. assets in the region and respond with a "fist of iron" to ongoing Saudi military actions. While acknowledging close ties with Tehran, the Houthi official maintained that the group operates independently in its decision-making. Meanwhile, the United Nations cautioned that the renewed conflict could escalate displaced populations in Yemen from 130,000 to over 230,000 in the coming months.