Yemen’s Houthi movement has launched a missile attack on Israel, marking its first direct strike since the ongoing war involving Iran escalated into a wider regional conflict.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said a barrage of ballistic missiles targeted what he described as “sensitive Israeli military sites” in southern Israel. The Israeli military confirmed at least one missile launch from Yemen and said it was intercepted. No casualties or damage were reported.
The strike signals a potential expansion of the conflict, now in its fifth week, which began after U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28. The war has since spread across multiple fronts, including Lebanon and the Gulf region, raising fears of a broader Middle East escalation.
Israeli forces carried out fresh airstrikes on Tehran on Saturday, targeting infrastructure linked to the Iranian government. Simultaneously, attacks continued in Lebanon, where strikes reportedly killed journalists and a soldier amid renewed fighting with Hezbollah.
Iran has also intensified its response, including a recent strike on a Saudi air base that wounded U.S. personnel. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts remain stalled despite regional talks involving Masoud Pezeshkian and Shehbaz Sharif, as well as planned discussions with Turkish and Saudi officials.
The Houthis warned they would continue operations until what they call “aggression” against the “Axis of Resistance” ends. They also hinted at expanding attacks to strategic maritime chokepoints, particularly the Bab al-Mandab Strait—a vital route for global shipping linked to the Suez Canal.
Analysts warn that any disruption in the Bab al-Mandab, combined with the already affected Strait of Hormuz, could severely impact global trade and energy supplies.
The Houthis have previously demonstrated their ability to disrupt Red Sea shipping, attacking over 100 vessels during the Gaza war period. A renewed campaign could significantly escalate risks for international maritime routes.
Meanwhile, tensions on Israel’s northern front continue, with rocket attacks from southern Lebanon injuring several Israeli soldiers, further complicating the security situation.
Experts say the Houthis’ entry into the conflict could open a new front, increasing pressure on Israel and its allies and raising the risk of a prolonged, multi-front regional war.
