Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed on Saturday that they had carried out their first attack on Israel since the current Middle East conflict began a month ago. The claim came shortly after the Israeli military said it had intercepted an incoming threat.
The group launched the strike after warning that it would enter the conflict if its ally, Tehran, continued to face attacks or if more countries joined the war.
Ballistic Missiles Target Israeli Sites
In a video statement posted on X, spokesperson Yahya Saree said the group had fired ballistic missiles at Israeli military targets. The Houthis, who control large parts of northern Yemen, had earlier used drones and missiles during the Gaza war as well.
Meanwhile, Israel’s military confirmed the launch. It said it had "identified the launch of a missile from Yemen toward Israeli territory, aerial defence systems are operating to intercept the threat".
No Casualties Reported
A few hours after the incident, there were no reports of casualties or damage in Israel. Media reports suggested that defence systems may have successfully intercepted the missile.
Houthis Warn of Direct Military Action
The Houthis repeated their warning of possible escalation. In a statement on Friday, the group said, "We affirm that our fingers are on the trigger for direct military intervention." They added that they would act if other countries joined the US-Israeli war or if the Red Sea was used for “hostile operations”.
Strategic Waters Gain Importance
Earlier, the Houthis had targeted shipping routes in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea during the Gaza conflict, saying they acted in support of Palestinians. However, they have not carried out similar maritime attacks in the current phase of the war.
At the same time, the Red Sea has gained strategic importance in the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran. This shift comes as Saudi Arabia diverts a large share of its oil exports to the port of Yanbu. Iran has effectively restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting routes through the Gulf.