Houthi Rebels Enhance Missile Capabilities Amid Israel's Focus on Iran and Lebanon

While Israel concentrates on threats from Iran and Lebanon, the Houthi rebels in Yemen are actively improving their missile capabilities. According to two Western intelligence sources cited by i24NEWS, the Houthis have recently conducted missile tests aimed at enhancing both the range and accuracy of their weapons. Over the past two and a half years, the Houthis have launched numerous missiles toward Israel, although many have malfunctioned mid-flight. Since resuming attacks on March 28, the group has fired approximately six missiles and five drones at Israel, marking a relatively limited escalation since the ceasefire agreement in Gaza was signed in October 2025.

The Houthis, known proxies of Iran, have largely refrained from attacks on Israel during the ceasefire period. However, last week, Houthi leader Abd al-Malik al-Houthi declared his group's readiness to intervene militarily in support of Hamas if Israel initiates a new military operation in Gaza. He emphasized ongoing coordination with allied resistance factions and vowed to fulfill their obligations in any escalation, particularly in Gaza.

In response, Israel's Defense Minister recently warned that the Houthi leadership is not immune to Israeli retaliation. He stated, "Israel's account with the Houthis is open, they will pay a price," and added, "If their leader becomes a target, we will eliminate him." This underscores Israel's intent to deter further Houthi aggression amid the broader regional tensions.