Israel's 'Precise' Attacks on Yemen; Katz: 'Our Long Arm' Reaches the Houthis

Following Israel's nighttime attacks on the Houthis in Yemen, the Israeli Defense Minister warned the leaders of this Iran-backed group that 'Israel's long arm' reaches them. Yisrael Katz stated in a message to the Houthis: 'Whoever raises a hand against us will have their hand cut off. Whoever strikes us will face multiple blows.' Meanwhile, Daniel Hagari, the chief spokesperson for the Israeli army, mentioned that among the targets hit in the 'precise attacks' were 'ports and energy infrastructure' in Sanaa, the Houthi-controlled capital, which the group used for 'military actions.' The attack on Sanaa and Hodeidah came after the Israeli army announced it intercepted a Houthi missile before it entered Israeli airspace. This ballistic missile, according to Israeli defense forces, was shot down outside of Israeli airspace by the long-range 'Arrow' air defense system, causing no harm, although debris caused significant damage in the city of Ramat Gan. This was the second missile launched from Yemen this week, accompanied by a drone attack. These developments come as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a speech at the 'Council on Foreign Relations' in New York, highlighted the growing power of the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, stating that their military capabilities have reached a level where they are openly utilized. He expressed concern that this group, which claims its missile launches are in support of Palestinians, may continue its aggressive actions even after the conflict in Gaza is resolved. The U.S. Secretary of State noted that the Houthis have established themselves on the global stage and may continue their actions. In September of this year, United Nations experts reported in a confidential document about the assistance of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Quds Force to the Houthi militants in Yemen, transforming this local armed group into a powerful military organization. Ilan Berman: The most significant challenge for the Trump administration in the Middle East is containing the Houthis. Destruction of seven Houthi missiles and drones targeting Americans. Recruitment of Houthi mercenaries by Russia for the war in Ukraine.