Israel Cautious on Houthi Threat, Seeks Regional Coalition

Israel's intelligence community views the Houthi successes in Yemen as escalating from a local issue to a significant regional threat. However, Israeli military officials currently do not deem a preemptive strike against the Houthis necessary, according to a senior Israeli intelligence source cited by "Maariv." The defense establishment is prioritizing the formation of a regional coalition to counter the growing menace.

The Houthis have recently expanded their control in the Red Sea, capturing the Hanish Islands, the port city of Mukha, and Mayon Island. This advance strengthens their position near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical international shipping lane. Israeli officials acknowledge that past strikes, conducted by both Israeli and U.S. forces, as well as a years-long Saudi air campaign, have failed to deter the group.

A senior security official noted the Houthis' increasing military and intelligence capabilities, stating, "It seems they are getting better and better." This assessment suggests a lack of effective deterrence against the group.

According to the intelligence source, Israel's current cautious approach could change under three scenarios. First, an escalation between Iran and the U.S. could prompt Iran to direct the Houthis to attack Israel with missiles or drones, which would elicit an immediate Israeli response. Second, further Houthi control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which directly impacts Israel's port of Eilat and global trade, could compel Israel to intervene directly. Third, a request for assistance from Saudi Arabia, following discussions about potential Israeli intelligence support mediated by the U.S. Central Command, could alter Israel's stance.

Israel recognizes the Houthis' transformation from a perceived weak local force into a significant regional player, particularly due to their strong ties with Iran, which considers them an effective proxy. Despite previous Israeli strikes in 2025 targeting Houthi ports and infrastructure, and even a strike on a Houthi leadership meeting that reportedly killed around 50 individuals including the prime minister, the Houthis have maintained their operational capacity. The current Israeli policy aims to avoid unilateral military action and build a broader coalition, though continued Houthi advances or direct attacks on Israel could lead to a reassessment.