Yemen's Houthi group announced on March 28, 2026, that it launched a second wave of missile and drone attacks targeting southern Israel, intensifying regional tensions. The group claimed the strikes were coordinated with Iran and Lebanon-based Hezbollah, framing them as support for allied "resistance fronts" in Palestine, Lebanon, Iraq, and Iran.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea stated the operation "successfully achieved its objectives" and warned of continued attacks until Israel halts its military actions. The latest escalation follows a ballistic missile barrage earlier on March 28, marking the group's first major strike since U.S.-Israeli operations against Iran began in late February.
Analysts note the timing coincides with heightened rhetoric from Houthi leadership. On March 26, Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi reaffirmed the group's military readiness and strategic ties with Iran, signaling alignment with regional allies amid ongoing conflicts.
The attacks raise concerns about expanding proxy warfare in the Middle East, with implications for global energy markets and maritime security in the Red Sea corridor. Business leaders and policymakers are monitoring potential disruptions to trade routes critical to Asian economies.
