Image source: CNN
For the first time, Israel has taken military action inside Yemen following a provocative drone attack by the Houthi rebels. This escalation is part of a broader conflict that has intensified with the Houthis' recent aggressions in support of Gaza amid ongoing violence in the region.
The Houthi movement, based in Yemen and backed by Iran, has been actively involved in the Yemeni civil war for nearly a decade. Known for their Shia Islamist beliefs, the Houthis have steadily gained control over northern Yemen and have been engaged in peace talks with Saudi Arabia to solidify their position. However, their involvement in regional conflicts has increased recently, particularly in relation to the Gaza conflict.
Houthi military cadets show their support for Palestinians during a demonstration in Sana'a, Yemen, on June 14. Getty Images
The latest series of confrontations began after the Houthis, in solidarity with Gaza, began targeting shipping lanes in the Red Sea. This was part of their response to the Israeli military’s actions against Hamas, following the group's attack on Israel on October 7. Despite various international responses to these attacks, including strikes by the US and UK on Houthi targets, Israel had not yet been involved directly.
Israeli police are looking into a drone attack that hit Tel Aviv on Friday, which was claimed by Houthi rebels. AP Photo
The situation escalated dramatically on Friday when the Houthis launched a drone attack on Tel Aviv, Israel’s bustling commercial center. This attack, which resulted in the death of one Israeli citizen and injuries to several others, marked the first time the Houthis had directly targeted Israeli territory. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting that their drone was equipped to bypass Israeli defense systems. The drone was reportedly an Iranian-made Samad-3 model, upgraded to extend its range.
Houthi military spokesperson Yehya Saree addresses a rally criticizing Israel and the US on Friday. AP Photo
In response to the drone attack, Israel launched its own military strike against Yemen. On Saturday, Israeli aircraft targeted the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah, known for its strategic and economic significance. The airstrikes hit several sites, including oil facilities, resulting in at least six deaths and numerous injuries. The Houthis accused Israel of targeting civilian infrastructure and a power station, condemning the strikes as "brutal aggression" intended to increase suffering in Yemen and pressure the Houthis to cease their support for Gaza.
Smoke and flames are seen coming from a location in Hodeidah, Yemen, on Saturday. AP Photo
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the strikes, asserting that the port of Hodeidah was being used to smuggle weapons from Iran to the Houthis. Netanyahu framed the operation as a necessary response to ensure Israel's security and demonstrate its ability to strike at any threat, regardless of distance from its borders.
The conflict between Israel and the Houthis introduces a new dimension to an already complex regional situation. The Houthis' escalation with Israel adds to the ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, another Iran-backed group based in Lebanon. Hezbollah has been involved in cross-border skirmishes with Israel since early October, further complicating the regional dynamics.
As tensions continue to rise, both sides are preparing for prolonged conflict. The Houthis have expressed their readiness for a "long war," and Israeli officials have warned of severe consequences for any attacks on Israeli soil. The situation reflects the broader geopolitical struggle involving Iran's influence in the Middle East, with its support for various militant groups contributing to ongoing instability in the region.
