Israel Warns of Escalating Action Against Houthi Rebels Amid Growing Tensions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning on Sunday regarding the growing threat posed by the Houthi rebels in Yemen. Following a recent ballistic missile attack that struck a Tel Aviv playground, Netanyahu indicated that Israel would take aggressive measures against the Iran-backed group, much like it has done with other Iranian proxy forces in the region.

Netanyahu’s comments came after a missile fired by the Houthis exploded in a Tel Aviv playground, injuring 16 people and causing significant damage. This attack marked the second time in as many days that Houthi missiles had triggered sirens in central Israel, underscoring the rising threat from the rebel group. The IDF had previously responded with airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, aiming to disrupt the group’s operations.

In a statement released after a security cabinet meeting in Safed, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel was not alone in addressing the threat posed by the Houthis. The US and other nations have also carried out repeated strikes against Houthi targets, viewing the group as a significant threat to global shipping and regional stability. Netanyahu declared, “Just as we acted forcefully against the terrorist arms of Iran’s evil axis, so we will act against the Houthis… with force, determination, and sophistication.”

Netanyahu’s remarks reflect a broader shift in Israel’s strategy as it ramps up its military response to the Houthi threat. Israel has long been concerned about the Houthis' missile and drone capabilities, which have targeted not only Israeli civilian areas but also merchant vessels in the Red Sea. The attacks have disrupted global shipping and created security concerns for the international community.

Targeting Houthi Infrastructure in Yemen

In response to the escalating attacks, Israel has intensified its strikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. Over the past year, Israeli airstrikes have targeted key infrastructure, including oil depots, power stations, and ports controlled by the Houthis. These strikes have caused significant economic damage to the rebel group, with recent reports estimating that the Houthi-controlled port city of Hodeida has suffered losses exceeding $300 million.

Israeli defense officials have made it clear that the Houthis are now the focus of Israel’s defense operations, with plans for further strikes in the coming weeks. Despite these efforts, there is ongoing debate within Israel’s defense establishment about whether it would be more effective to directly target Iran itself, rather than focusing on its proxy group in Yemen.

However, some senior Israeli officials, including Mossad chief David Barnea, have suggested that Israel should focus on striking Iran directly, rather than limiting its actions to the Houthis. Barnea has reportedly argued that targeting Iran’s core would be more effective in stopping the escalation of missile and drone attacks, which are not always coordinated with Tehran.

This debate comes amid growing concerns that Israel’s strategy in the region may soon involve direct military action against Iranian assets, particularly as Israel’s defense establishment prepares for potential Iranian retaliation. Sources close to Israel’s political and military leadership indicate that Israel may be preparing to address the broader Iranian threat, including possible attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.

US Concerns About Iran's Nuclear Program

As Israel ramps up its focus on the Houthis, the US is closely monitoring the situation. US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has raised alarms about the potential for Iran to escalate its nuclear program in response to Israel’s attacks. According to Sullivan, the recent Israeli strikes on Iranian military facilities have already reduced Tehran’s conventional military capabilities, which could drive Iran to revisit its nuclear ambitions.

Sullivan noted that the Biden administration is briefing President-elect Donald Trump’s team on the risks posed by Iran’s nuclear program, urging vigilance as tensions continue to rise.