Houthi Rebels Launch Missile Assault on Israel Amid Ongoing Middle East Conflict

Sat Mar 28 2026 21:34:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In a significant escalation of the US-Israel confrontation with Iran, Yemen's Houthi rebels claim to have targeted Israel with missile strikes, marking their entry into the conflict.

The Iran-supported Houthi movement in Yemen has commenced missile strikes against Israel, stating they will persist with such actions until aggression against their allied forces ceases. This entry into conflict raises concerns over potential disruptions to global trade, as the Houthis possess capabilities to threaten maritime operations in the Red Sea. Israel has reported intercepting some missiles aimed at its territory, but the escalating situation underscores the complexities of regional alliances and the implications for international security.

The Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen say they have launched a barrage of missiles against Israel, in what marks the first direct involvement of the group in the ongoing war fueled by escalating tensions between the US and Iran.

The group issued a statement targeting 'sensitive Israeli military sites' and has vowed to continue such operations. In response, Israel confirmed it intercepted one missile that originated from Yemen.

This development raises fears over potential disruptions in the global economy, as the Houthis possess the capacity to threaten shipping routes in the Red Sea, a critical pathway for international trade. The Houthis consider themselves part of an 'axis of resistance' that includes Iranian-backed groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza.

Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war for over a decade, starting when the Houthis seized control of the north-west of the country, prompting a Saudi-led coalition intervention aimed at restoring the internationally recognized government. Control of Yemen’s coastline along the Red Sea allows the Houthis to project power and threaten maritime operations.

Military analysts had anticipated the Houthis would enter the conflict, especially after US and Israeli military strikes against Iran commenced on February 28. Following the missile launches, their military spokesperson indicated readiness to engage in direct military action against any nations joining the US-Israeli assaults, specifically referencing operations in the Red Sea.

US and Israeli attacks have persisted even as President Donald Trump hinted at potential diplomatic dialogues with Iran, although Tehran has denied such negotiations. The strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz, through which significant oil and LNG shipments pass, underscores the high stakes involved in this conflict.

The disruption in shipping through the Bab al-Mandab Strait has led to severe concerns about increased energy costs and potential economic downturns globally, as a significant portion of the world’s oil shipments typically transits this route. The Houthis have previously been involved in multiple attacks against maritime targets in the Red Sea, prompting major shipping companies to explore alternative routes.