Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu announced that they will launch a “violent operation” against the Iran-backed Houthi militias in Yemen. This statement further increased the tension in the region and raised the possibility of a new wave of conflict in the Middle East.
Operation Preparation Against Houthi Militias
In a video message released after the meeting of the Israeli Security Cabinet in Safed, Netanyahu announced plans for a military operation against the Houthis. Netanyahu stated that this move is part of the operations against Iran’s proxy forces in the region.
Prime Minister Netanyahu said, “We will act against the Houthis in the same decisive way we act against Iran’s proxies. The United States and our other allies see the Houthis as a threat not only to shipping, but to the global order.”
The announcement deepened ongoing tensions between Israel and the Iranian-backed groups. Experts warn that new conflicts could erupt in the region.
Retaliation for Missile Attack
Netanyahu’s statements came after the Houthis in Yemen attacked two military targets in the Israeli city of Jaffa with “Palestine 2” ballistic missiles on December 19. The Houthi missile attacks mobilized the Israeli army.
The Israeli army launched airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The Israeli Air Force bombarded 5 strategic points with 14 fighter jets.
Israeli army radio reported that a school in the Ramat Gan area near Tel Aviv was damaged as a result of the missile attacks. These attacks have raised security concerns in Israel and signaled that harsh measures will be taken against the Houthis.
Regional Tensions Escalate
Netanyahu’s statements further escalated tensions in the Middle East and raised concerns in the international community. The United States and European countries are on high alert over Houthi threats to maritime transportation.
The Houthis threaten strategic transit routes in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, putting the security of global trade at risk. Netanyahu emphasized that not only Israel, but the entire Western alliance will act decisively against this threat.
Shadow War between Iran and Israel
Netanyahu’s planned operation against the Houthi militias is seen as an extension of the tension between Iran and Israel. Iran’s policies through its proxy forces in the region are among the main factors that trigger Israel’s military operations.
The Iran-backed Houthis have recently increased their missile attacks, using Israel’s operations in Gaza as a pretext. These attacks further increased the risk of Iran and Israel being dragged into a direct confrontation.
International Reactions
Netanyahu’s statements also resonated with the international community. The United States and some European countries have expressed their support for Israel, describing Houthi activities as a threat to global security.
The United Nations, on the other hand, called for restraint and emphasized the need to step up diplomatic efforts to prevent the conflict from escalating into a wider regional crisis.
Conclusion: New Crisis in the Middle East
Israel’s planned operation against Houthi militias could reshape the balance of power in the Middle East. However, this step could increase regional instability and open the door to new conflicts. Netanyahu’s remarks further escalate tensions between Iran and Israel and signal that the international community should focus on diplomatic solutions.
