Israel strikes Yemen’s capital and port city after Houthi attacks, escalating regional tensions and risking a wider conflict.
At a Glance
- Israel launched air strikes on Houthi military targets in Yemen, killing at least nine people
- The strikes were in response to a Houthi missile targeting central Israel
- Houthis have launched over 220 missiles and drones at Israel since October 2023
- The conflict risks escalating tensions with Iranian-backed groups in the region
- Houthi attacks have disrupted global shipping in the Red Sea corridor
Israel Retaliates Against Houthi Missile Attack
The Israeli military has conducted significant air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, marking a dramatic escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict. The strikes, which targeted military infrastructure in Yemen’s capital Sanaa and the port city of Hodeidah, came in direct response to a Houthi-launched ballistic missile aimed at central Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stark warning to the Houthis and their Iranian backers. “After Hamas, Hezbollah and the Assad regime in Syria, the Houthis are almost the last remaining arm of Iran’s axis of evil. They are learning and they will learn the hard way, that whoever harms Israel pays a very heavy price for it,” Netanyahu said.
🚨 A Houthi ballistic missile strike has hit Tel Aviv, injuring 14 people. The missile, launched from Yemen, evaded Israeli defense systems. Houthis claim the attack is in solidarity with Palestinians amidst escalating regional tensions. #Israel #TelAviv #Houthi #Yemen…
— Patryk Woszczek (@WoszczekPatryk) December 21, 2024
Houthi Attacks Escalate Regional Tensions
The Houthis, an Iranian-backed group controlling much of Yemen, have increasingly targeted Israel since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. According to Israeli military sources, the group has launched over 220 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones at Israel since October 7, 2023. This recent attack, however, marks a significant escalation in both range and audacity.
“The operations from the Yemeni front to support the Palestinian people with missiles and drones towards the Israeli enemy are continuing,” Abdul Malik Al-Houthi, the Houthi leader, said.
The missile attack on Israel triggered sirens across central Israel, with debris from the interception falling within Israeli territory. While no major damage was reported, four people were lightly injured while seeking shelter, and one person was treated for acute anxiety. The incident highlights the growing reach and capabilities of the Houthi forces, raising concerns about the potential for a wider regional conflict.
Impact on Global Shipping and Regional Stability
The Houthi attacks have not been limited to Israel. The group has significantly disrupted international shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, targeting over 80 merchant vessels since the conflict began. These actions have led to increased concerns about global trade and maritime security in one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz delivered a forceful message to the Houthis: “I suggest the leaders of the Houthis to see, to understand and remember: Whoever raises a hand against the state of Israel, his hand will be cut off. Whoever harms us, will be harmed sevenfold.”
