Yemen’s Ansar Allah movement, commonly known as the Houthis, issued a stark warning to Israel after being targeted by new airstrikes. A source within the group told Newsweek, “Our hand is longer than the hand of Israel, and we will continue our operations without stopping until the aggression on Gaza stops.” The group vowed ongoing retaliation against “Zionist war criminals,” pledging unwavering support for Gaza despite escalating challenges.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced a series of airstrikes on Yemeni targets, including the Hizaz power station in Sanaa and military facilities in Al-Hodeidah and Ras Isa. The strikes responded to Houthi missile and drone attacks launched in solidarity with Hamas amid its conflict with Israel.
The IDF justified the airstrikes, stating, “The State of Israel has the right and obligation to defend itself.”
Ansar Allah, a key faction in the Iran-led Axis of Resistance, continues its campaign of drone and missile attacks on Israel and vessels linked to Israeli interests. The group has also targeted U.S. warships, claiming responsibility for attacks on the USS *Harry S. Truman* and other vessels in the Red Sea.
Statements from Key Players
– Houthi Military Spokesperson Yahya Saree: Announced successful strikes on U.S. and Israeli targets, stating their operations aim to challenge “the aggression of the Zionist enemy.”
– White House NSC Communications Director John Kirby: Acknowledged the group’s continued capabilities, emphasizing efforts to degrade their long-range threats.
– IDF Statement: Labeled the Houthis a “terrorist regime” relying on Iranian support and reiterated their commitment to counter threats against Israel and its citizens.
The ongoing conflict has intensified Middle East tensions, with maritime warfare by Ansar Allah disrupting shipping routes, raising global consumer goods prices, and straining international coalitions aimed at stabilizing the region. The Houthis’ actions have drawn strikes not only from Israel but also from the United States and United Kingdom.
With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office in 10 days, the situation adds complexity to an already volatile Middle East. Trump has warned of significant regional instability if a ceasefire is not achieved, particularly regarding hostages held by Hamas.
Ansar Allah, in prior communications, has directly appealed to Trump to resolve the conflict, emphasizing the economic toll on the U.S. and global markets caused by heightened shipping costs.
As ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas remain deadlocked, the Houthis’ ongoing operations underscore their role as a significant player in the crisis. The Biden administration’s coalition to counter Ansar Allah attacks is expected to remain active, focusing on defending commercial shipping and mitigating threats to Israel.
