Yemen's Houthi leader has accused the United States of looting Iraq's oil reserves amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. In a fiery speech, Ansarallah leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi alleged that American corporations are plundering Iraq's energy wealth while ordinary Iraqis continue to face economic hardship.
Accusations of Plunder
Al-Houthi claimed that foreign companies, particularly American ones, are benefiting from Iraq's oil resources before the Iraqi people themselves see any gains. He described this as a form of plunder, stating, "You plunderer, you are stealing the wealth of Iraq while its people suffer."
Call for Economic Boycott
The Houthi leader also urged Muslims worldwide to expand economic boycotts of Western and Israeli products. He argued that purchasing such goods strengthens nations he described as hostile to the Islamic world. This call comes amid heightened tensions in the region following the US-led military operations against Iran.
Regional Context
The allegations come at a time when Iraq is caught between its alliances with Iran and its dependence on US support. Iraq's oil wealth has long been a source of contention, with many accusing foreign powers of exploiting the country's resources. The Houthis, who control large parts of Yemen, have been vocal critics of US and Israeli policies in the Middle East.
Al-Houthi's statements are likely to further strain relations between the US and Iraq, as Baghdad seeks to balance its ties with Washington and Tehran. Meanwhile, the call for economic boycotts could impact trade dynamics in the region, particularly for Western companies operating in Muslim-majority countries.
