Yemen Conflict Escalates as Houthis Launch Missiles at Israel, Triggering Airspace Closures and Retaliation Threats

Tensions in the Middle East surged Tuesday night as Yemen’s Houthi movement, known as Ansarullah, launched ballistic missiles and drones targeting southern Israel and Jerusalem. The Israeli Air Force intercepted the projectiles after air raid sirens sounded across multiple regions, including Jerusalem, Ben Gurion Airport, and several West Bank settlements. No injuries or damage were reported, but the attacks prompted temporary closures of Israeli airspace and sent residents seeking shelter.

The Houthis, an Iranian-backed group that has repeatedly targeted Israel and maritime traffic since November 2023, claimed responsibility for the latest assault, vowing to continue military operations in support of Gaza. Since March 18, the group has launched over 50 ballistic missiles and at least 13 drones at Israel, though many have failed to reach their targets.

In response to the missile barrage, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning, stating, “Yemen will be treated like Tehran. After striking the head of the snake in Tehran, we will also strike the Houthis in Yemen. Whoever raises a hand against Israel—that hand will be cut off”. This follows a recent ceasefire between Israel and Iran after a 12-day conflict, and comes amid ongoing hostilities in Gaza, where Israeli forces have resumed airstrikes following stalled ceasefire talks with Hamas.

Yemen’s official statement also warned foreign vessels to avoid its territorial waters, raising concerns about a potential expansion of hostilities in the Red Sea—a region already destabilized by Houthi attacks on maritime traffic.

The escalation underscores the widening scope of the conflict, with regional actors increasingly drawn into hostilities and the risk of broader confrontation mounting as diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza falter.