Israel and Yemen’s Houthi militia are gearing up for a potential military showdown after the IDF renewed strikes in Gaza. A surprise assault by the Israeli Air Force marked the end of a ceasefire that also halted attacks from Yemen.
The Houthis are now threatening to escalate attacks on Israeli targets, demanding that Israel stop its military action and allow unrestricted aid into Gaza. In parallel, the IDF is bolstering its defenses and readies retaliation options.
Both sides are already taking action to prepare for battle. The Houthi missile force received orders to renew attacks on Israel, according to Lebanese daily Al Akhbar. Earlier, a spokesman in Yemen vowed to expand strikes on Israeli targets in the coming hours and days.
The IDF, anticipating renewed missile and drone attacks, has heightened its defensive posture in recent days. The Israeli Air Force is on high alert, with additional deployments of fighter jets and surveillance assets. Air defense teams also elevated their readiness.
The IDF has also prepared a list of Houthi targets in Yemen that likely includes ports, power stations, and leadership hubs for potential retaliatory strikes.
Tuesday evening, a ballistic missile launched from Yemen triggered sirens across southern Israel, including the Beersheba area. The IDF intercepted the incoming missile before it reached Israeli airspace.
It now remains to be seen if attacks from Yemen will intensify as promised, and whether the Houthis will target Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. Missile fire directed at the capital or at central Israel will likely trigger immediate escalation.
As tensions grow, the US is closely monitoring the situation and may join Israel in a coordinated response if attacks persist. After launching its own offensive in Yemen this week, the Trump administration warned Iran to curb its proxies of face the consequences, possibly sparking a wider regional conflict.