Title: Yemen’s Houthi Rebels Launch Missile and Drone Attacks Targeting Israel, Raising Regional Conflict Concerns
Yemen’s Houthi rebels made a significant move on Tuesday as they claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks aimed at Israel. This marks the first time the group has targeted Israel and intensifies the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, potentially escalating tensions in the region.
In previous weeks, the Houthis were suspected of an attack on Israel, which had been intercepted by the United States Navy. However, this recent claim demonstrates their direct involvement in targeting Israel. Israel swiftly responded, with their fighter jets and Arrow missile defense system intercepting and shooting down two waves of incoming fire near the Red Sea shipping port of Eilat.
The details of the attacks remain unclear as the Houthis did not disclose the timeline or whether Tuesday’s salvos represented one or two separate attacks. Nevertheless, the deployment of Israel’s rare Arrow missile defense system underscores the seriousness of the situation. The missile fire triggered an air raid siren in Eilat, prompting residents to seek shelter.
While the specific weapons used by the Houthis have not been identified, the use of the Arrow missile suggests the possibility of a ballistic missile being employed. The Houthis are known to possess a variant of the Burkan ballistic missile, capable of traveling over 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) to reach targets near Eilat.
The timing of these attacks is of concern, as the U.S. Navy’s Bataan strike group is likely positioned in the Red Sea. The Pentagon has expressed apprehension, emphasizing the need to prevent a broader regional conflict from erupting.
Saudi Arabia, which has been involved in recent clashes with the Houthis, did not offer an immediate response to the attacks. However, reports indicate that four Saudi soldiers were killed during recent confrontations with the rebel group.
The Houthis’ declaration brings Iran further into the conflict, as Iran has long supported the rebel group. Despite denying arming the Houthis, experts have traced seized weapons components back to Iran. In 2019, Iran was blamed for an attack on Saudi Arabia’s oil industry, initially claimed by the Houthis. Iran’s mission to the United Nations has also warned that allied militias, including the Houthis, could expand their operations against Israel.
As the situation unfolds, the international community remains concerned about the potential for an escalation in the ongoing conflict, urging all parties to exercise restraint and work towards a peaceful resolution.
