Yemen’s Houthi group announced the launch of missiles targeting sensitive Israeli sites in Jaffa and imposed a ban on Israeli maritime navigation in the Red Sea. The Houthi military spokesperson stated that the missile attack in Jaffa was successful and declared a complete prohibition on Israeli vessels in the Red Sea. The group warned that any Israeli-linked ship in the area would be a legitimate military target.
The spokesperson emphasized that they would respond to escalation with escalation and hinted at potential increased military activities in collaboration with allied groups. The Houthi group vowed to continue its operations as long as perceived aggression and blockades against Yemen and its allies persist. This development signifies a heightened level of regional tensions.
Israel retaliated by striking military targets in western and central Iran following Iranian missile attacks. In response, Iran launched additional missiles towards Israel. The Houthis, closely allied with Iran, have held control over Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, and a significant portion of the country since late 2014. Since October 2023, the group has conducted various attacks against Israel in support of Gaza and Iran-backed forces in the region.
Israel, in turn, has targeted Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, resulting in the elimination of senior leaders and the destruction of critical infrastructure.
