Since the commencement of the Gaza conflict, an additional challenge has emerged for Israel from the southern front, posed by the Yemeni Houthi group.
WHO ARE THE HOUTHIS, EXACTLY?
In the late 1990s, the Houthi family, situated in Northern Yemen, established a "religious revival movement" with the objective of challenging the Sunni central government in Sana'a. The Houthis identify with the Zaidi branch of Shia Islam, which has distinct religious differences from the Shia populations in Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon. Initially, when the movement was initiated, the Houthis were regarded as a relatively minor presence in Yemen. However, with the passage of time, they progressively intensified their guerrilla activities against the Yemeni military.
The Houthi faction's video, termed as "Yemeni war media," made its initial debut on their Al-Masirah satellite channel before being extensively circulated across various social media platforms.
Within the video, approximately 15 missiles and 30 drones are prominently launched, capturing scenes both in daylight and during the nighttime. Notably, a Palestinian flag waves in the foreground, adding to the visual narrative.
"Death to America, death to Israel," could also be heard at the end of the video.
ISRAEL DEPLOYES MISSILE BOATS IN THE RED SEA
The Israeli military announced the deployment of missile boats in the Red Sea on Wednesday, citing the need for reinforcements. This decision came in response to a declaration from Houthi militias, who have aligned with Iran, confirming missile and drone attacks on Israel and pledging to continue such actions.
It's worth to note that Iran has issued prior alerts regarding the potential involvement of its regional partners in the Gaza conflict. Recent days have witnessed repeated incidents where US forces in Iraq and Syria were subjected to targeting. Moreover, ongoing cross-border clashes between Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and Israel have persisted since October 7th.
WHAT COMES NEXT?
The Houthi's declaration has further involved Iran in the conflict. Iran has a history of supporting both the Houthis and Hamas, along with the Lebanese Shiite militia group Hezbollah, which continues to engage in deadly cross-border exchanges with Israel. Additionally, U.S. troops have been targeted in drone attacks on bases in Iraq and Syria, which have been claimed by Iranian-allied militia groups since the commencement of the war.
The Houthis adhere to the Shiite Zaydi faith, a branch of Shiite Islam primarily found in Yemen. Their longstanding slogan includes phrases such as: "God is the greatest; death to America; death to Israel; curse the Jews; victory to Islam."
Photo by Craig Manners on Unsplash
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