Israel Faces Escalating Missile Threats from Iranian-Backed Houthis in Yemen

Israeli leaders weigh military and diplomatic strategies to counter increasing Houthi attacks, including calls for global recognition of the group as a terrorist organization.

• The Houthis have launched four missile attacks on Israel over the past two weeks, with the latest intercepted on December 24, highlighting their growing boldness.
• Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, vow to intensify military responses against the Houthis' leadership and infrastructure in Yemen.
• Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has instructed Israeli diplomats to lobby for international recognition of the Houthis as a terrorist organization, aiming to strengthen global opposition to the group.
• Some Israeli analysts debate whether to treat the Houthis as a state actor controlling parts of Yemen, which could broaden military options but risk escalating regional tensions with Iran and Gulf allies.
• The Houthis, fortified by Iranian support and years of conflict with Saudi Arabia, present a unique challenge due to their advanced missile and drone capabilities and strategic use of Yemen’s mountainous terrain.

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