In a bold and coordinated move, Yemen’s Houthi rebels announced on Sunday that they launched ballistic missiles at Israel in direct coordination with Iran. This marks the first time the Houthis have openly confirmed such joint military action with Tehran, further escalating tensions in the region.
The Houthi military spokesperson, Yehya Sarea, said several missiles were fired toward central Israel’s Jaffa within the past 24 hours. In a televised statement, he called the attack a stand “for the oppressed Palestinian and Iranian peoples,” and claimed it was carried out in full coordination with Iranian military operations targeting Israel.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military reported missile sirens sounding in multiple areas following launches from both Yemen and Iran. Although not all strikes were successful, one missile reportedly landed in Hebron in the occupied West Bank. While Israel blamed Yemen, the Houthis did not confirm responsibility for that specific strike.
Since Israel launched a massive military offensive against Iran on Friday, both sides have exchanged missile and drone attacks. Iran’s allies, including the Houthis, have now visibly entered the conflict, increasing fears of a wider regional war.
The Houthis have repeatedly targeted Israel since the Israel-Hamas conflict reignited in October 2023. While most of their missiles have been intercepted, the group claims these strikes are in support of Palestinians in Gaza. In response, Israel and the U.S. have previously launched retaliatory strikes on Houthi positions.
Earlier this year, the U.S. halted its military campaign against the Houthis after they agreed to stop attacking American ships. However, the group’s involvement in coordinated strikes with Iran may trigger renewed international response, as the conflict continues to spiral across multiple fronts.