Houthi Official Denies Iranian Orders, Cites Saudi Blockade for Escalating Conflict

A senior Houthi official told CNN that their directives for hostile actions against Saudi Arabia do not come from Iran, asserting that the group does not require Tehran's orders to intensify the conflict with Riyadh. The official emphasized that the economic and air blockade imposed by Saudi Arabia on Houthi-controlled areas has created the world's worst man-made humanitarian crisis, which alone justifies their determined response. Furthermore, the official described recent Houthi attacks on Saudi targets as preemptive measures, claiming that Riyadh was preparing for a ground invasion into Houthi-held territory. This statement highlights the ongoing tensions and the Houthi perspective on the escalating military confrontations in the region.