Houthi rebels launch new offensive in ongoing Iran-Yemen conflict

Houthi Militants Launch Attacks on Israel, Raise Concerns About Potential Blockade of Bab al-Mandeb Strait

Yemen’s Houthi rebels have launched a series of attacks on Israel, with Brigadier-General Yahya Saree announcing the group’s first strike on Saturday. The Houthis have also carried out a second military operation against Israel using cruise missiles and drones, according to Saree.

The group has not made any formal announcement of joining the war in Lebanon or Iraq, but Iran is reportedly welcoming their involvement. Iranian officials have long considered the Houthis as part of its “axis of resistance” against Israel and the United States.

Analysts say that the Houthis’ actions could potentially lead to a broader regional conflict, particularly if they were to block the Bab al-Mandeb strait, one of the world’s busiest maritime routes. The strait connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and is a critical chokepoint for global commodities trade.

The potential blockade would have significant economic implications, exacerbating the existing energy crisis in the region. The Strait of Hormuz has already been closed due to Iranian attacks on vessels passing through it, causing a global energy shortage and inflationary pressure on economies worldwide.

Several countries have imposed fuel rationing and reduced working hours to conserve energy. The strait is located between Yemen to its northeast and Djibouti and Eritrea in the Horn of Africa to its southwest.

The Houthis’ ability to strike targets far beyond Yemen raises concerns about their potential involvement in a broader regional conflict. Analysts note that Iran’s actions have been consistent with its stated goals, but it is unclear whether the Houthis will fully participate in the conflict.

Source: Al Jazeera