Israel Defence Chief Warns of Retaliation After Houthi Missile Interception
Israel defence officials have issued a sharp warning to the Houthi rebel group in Yemen after Israel’s military successfully intercepted a missile launched toward its territory earlier this week. The missile, reportedly fired by the Houthis, adds to the list of escalating threats that have emerged across the region following the Gaza war and the recent 12-day air conflict between Israel and Iran.
In a bold and fiery statement, Israel Defence Minister Israel Katz declared that Israel was prepared to strike the Houthis if they continue attacking Israeli territory. Drawing a direct line between Yemen and Tehran, he said, “The fate of Yemen is the same as that of Tehran. After striking the head of the snake in Iran, we will also strike the Houthis in Yemen. Whoever raises a hand against Israel that hand will be cut off.”
The Houthis later confirmed responsibility for the attack, stating that they launched multiple operations targeting Israeli military positions, including an airport and other “sensitive” locations. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree said the group was acting in support of the Palestinian people and against what it described as Israeli aggression in Gaza.
Israel Defence Ministry Links Yemen to Tehran in New Strike Threat
The conflict marks another chapter in the ongoing proxy tensions between Iran-backed groups and Israel. The Houthis, who control large parts of Yemen, have long aligned themselves with Iran and Hezbollah in opposing Israel’s military actions, particularly those targeting Palestinians. Since October 2023, they have regularly launched missiles and drones at Israel and commercial vessels in the Red Sea. Most have been intercepted or failed to reach their targets, but their presence continues to disrupt regional trade and escalate tensions.
Israel’s defence systems have played a vital role in preventing casualties and damage, but officials say patience is wearing thin. The latest attack has prompted new threats of direct Israeli strikes on Yemeni territory. The Israel defence ministry has already authorized previous retaliatory operations against ports and infrastructure in Houthi-controlled regions like Sanaa.
Israel Defence Moves Could Escalate Middle East Conflict Again
Meanwhile, diplomatic voices are joining the military rhetoric. Former U.S. ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, also made headlines with a provocative statement posted on X, hinting at possible U.S. involvement in future operations. Referring to the recent use of B-2 stealth bombers in U.S. strikes against Iran, Huckabee wrote, “Maybe those B2 bombers need to visit Yemen!” His remarks reflect growing frustration within U.S. political circles over ongoing attacks by Iranian-backed militias.
The use of the B-2 bomber during the 12-day war with Iran demonstrated the seriousness of the joint Israeli-American military partnership. The stealth aircraft is capable of delivering over 40,000 pounds of bombs, including the Massive Ordnance Penetrator a weapon designed to destroy fortified underground nuclear sites. Its ability to strike globally from U.S. bases without detection adds a layer of strategic advantage to Israel’s defence plan.
We thought we were done with missiles coming to Israel, but Houthis just lit one up over us in Israel. Fortunately, Israel’s incredible interception system means we go to the shelter & wait until all clear. Maybe those B2 bombers need to visit Yemen!
— Ambassador Mike Huckabee (@GovMikeHuckabee) July 1, 2025
The recent Houthi missile attack is the first since the temporary ceasefire between Israel and Iran came into effect on June 24. Prior to that, Houthi attacks had paused during a short-lived truce in Gaza, but resumed once that agreement broke down in March. With the Gaza war reigniting and regional alliances shifting, experts warn that the Houthis may increase their strikes under Iran’s strategic guidance.
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In the meantime, Israeli defence officials say they are monitoring the situation and preparing for all possibilities. While direct confrontation with the Houthis could open up a new front, defence forces believe that firm action may be necessary to restore deterrence.
Conclusion:
As the conflict stretches beyond Gaza and Iran to Yemen, Israel defence is positioning itself for a broader campaign against threats from all sides. Whether this leads to a new wave of military escalation or deters further attacks depends on how both the Houthis and Iran respond in the coming days.
