Houthi Missile Attacks on Israel Intensify Amid Ongoing Conflict
In a significant escalation of hostilities, the Houthi movement from Yemen has vowed to continue its missile and drone attacks against Israel, asserting that these operations are in direct support of Gaza. On December 24, 2024, the Israeli army reported that it intercepted a missile launched from Yemen before it could enter Israeli airspace. Sirens were activated in several central regions of Israel as a precautionary measure. The Israeli ambulance service reported that over 20 individuals were injured during a stampede to shelters following the missile launch, with some suffering from panic-related issues.
The Houthi military spokesman, Yahya Saree, confirmed that the group had executed two drone operations targeting military sites in Ashkelon and Jaffa, emphasizing that their military actions would persist until the Israeli aggression against Gaza ceases. This announcement follows a series of intensified operations by the Houthis, including a recent bombing of a military target in Jaffa using a hypersonic ballistic missile, which reportedly injured 16 Israelis.
Background of Houthi Operations Against Israel
Since November 2023, the Houthis have escalated their military activities, targeting Israeli-linked cargo ships in the Red Sea and conducting missile and drone strikes aimed at Israeli territory. These attacks are framed as a response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has seen significant violence since October 7, 2023. The Houthis have made it clear that they will continue their military operations until there is an end to what they describe as Israeli aggression and the lifting of the siege on Gaza.
The situation remains tense as the Israeli military continues to intercept threats from Yemen, including drones that have been launched towards Israeli cities. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about broader regional stability and the potential for further escalation between various factions involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
