Washington, Rajab 18, 1439, April 4, 2018, SPA -- United States of America expressed its deep concern about the attempt of Iran-backed Houthi militias to escalate the war in Yemen through Bab al-Mandab strait. "The United States is deeply concerned about the recent attempt by the Houthis to escalate the war in Yemen by attacking a trade vessel as it crosses the international waters of Bab Al-Mandab, one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world," the White House said in a press release. "The Houthis publicly threatened in January to attack the international maritime trade movement in the Red Sea, launching the attack near the vital port of Hodeidah," the statement said. "Yesterday's attack synchronized with the high-level UN fund-raising conference in Geneva, where the Saudi-led coalition forces contributed $ 930 million, while the Iranian regime continues to prolong the conflict and provide destabilizing weapons to the Houthis, and to show their commitment to the peace process by engaging in a constructive dialogue. " -- SPA 21:03 LOCAL TIME 18:03 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w659493