Houthi Militia in Yemen Vows to Join Iranian Reprisal Attack on Israel
The Houthi militia in Yemen has pledged its support for Iran and vowed to participate in an anticipated reprisal attack on Israel following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. The Houthi leader, Mahdi Al-Mashat, ordered a three-day period of mourning and the lowering of flags after Haniyeh was killed by a suspected Israeli air strike. The Houthi militia has been targeting vessels in international shipping lanes in the Red Sea and other waters off the coast of Yemen since November, in support of the Palestinian people and to pressure Israel to halt its military operations in the Gaza Strip.
Houthi Attacks on Israel
The Houthi attacks have not been limited to targeting vessels in the Red Sea. On July 19, an explosives-laden drone launched by the militia hit a residential area in Tel Aviv, killing one person and injuring at least 10. In response, Israeli authorities attacked the sea port and oil-storage facilities in the Houthi-held Yemeni city of Hodeidah, resulting in casualties. Hamed Asem, the deputy governor of Sanaa province, confirmed that the Houthi militia would join Iran and other proxy groups in the region in retaliatory attacks against Israel for the assassination of Haniyeh.
Israel’s Message to Iran and Its Proxies
Although Israel has not claimed responsibility for the assassination, Yemeni experts believe that by targeting Haniyeh deep within Iranian territory, Israeli authorities intended to send a message to Tehran and its proxies. The message is clear: Israel will not hesitate to kill their leaders if they continue to attack Israel. Nadwa Al-Dawsari, a nonresident fellow at the Middle East Institute, stated that Israel has established its deterrence through recent assassinations. Israel will directly target top leaders if Iran and its proxies persist in targeting Israel.
Houthi Militia’s Recklessness
The Houthi militia has been the most reckless of Iran’s proxies, as evidenced by their attacks in the Red Sea. Their actions have plunged the region into turmoil, with little accountability from the international community. With recent assassinations, Israel has shown its determination to protect itself. The Houthi militia’s past actions suggest that they could attempt another attack against Israel.
US Efforts to Counter Houthi Attacks
In response to the Houthi militia’s attacks, the US Central Command announced the destruction of three remotely operated boats in the Red Sea that the Houthis intended to use for attacking international shipping. The US and the UK have also carried out military strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, aiming to weaken the militia and halt the attacks on shipping. These efforts demonstrate the international community’s commitment to countering the Houthi militia’s aggression.
Conclusion
The Houthi militia in Yemen has pledged its support for Iran and vowed to join in any reprisal attack on Israel following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Israel’s recent assassinations have sent a strong message to Tehran and its proxies that they will face consequences for their attacks on Israel. The Houthi militia, known for its recklessness, poses a potential threat to Israel. However, international efforts, led by the US and the UK, are underway to counter the Houthi attacks and protect international shipping in the Red Sea. The situation remains tense, and the international community will continue to monitor developments in the region closely.