In a bold escalation of regional tensions, Yemen’s Houthi movement announced on Tuesday that it launched ballistic missiles targeting an Israeli military base in Tel Aviv. The group stated that the attack was carried out “in solidarity with Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza.”
The Houthis, who control significant portions of Yemen, have been engaged in a prolonged conflict with a Saudi-led coalition since 2015. Their declaration marks a significant extension of their engagement beyond the Yemeni borders, aligning themselves publicly with other groups in the region in opposition to Israel.
“Our forces have targeted a military installation in Tel Aviv using ballistic missiles,” a spokesperson for the Houthis said in a televised statement. “This operation is a message of solidarity with our brothers in Hezbollah and Hamas, and a response to the ongoing aggression in Gaza.”
There has been no immediate confirmation from Israeli authorities regarding the alleged attack. Tel Aviv, Israel’s economic and technological hub, is home to various military and civilian installations.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions following recent conflicts involving Hamas in Gaza and increasing hostilities along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, where Hezbollah operates.
Experts are concerned that the Houthis’ involvement could further destabilize the region. “This development indicates a potential widening of the conflict,” said Dr. Sara Al-Muharrami, a Middle East analyst. “It underscores the interconnected nature of the region’s dynamics, where actions in one area can have ripple effects elsewhere.”
The international community has urged restraint. The United Nations called for de-escalation to prevent further humanitarian crises in the already volatile Middle East.
As the situation unfolds, observers are watching closely to see how this move by the Houthis might influence regional alliances and the broader geopolitical landscape.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
