Houthis Step Up Attacks on Israel, Despite U.S. Ceasefire, Iran Talks

The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have stepped up their attacks on Israel, firing three ballistic missiles in the last four days. Though all were intercepted by missile defenses, the pace of the attacks is a notable escalation. Moreover, the attacks have come despite a Houthi ceasefire with the United States; ongoing talks between the U.S. and Iran on a possible nuclear deal; and Israeli reprisals at Yemen’s Hodeidah port and Sanaa airport.

The Houthis might frame their acceleration as a response to Israel’s renewed offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip — especially as the Houthis did not fire during the temporary ceasefire in Gaza earlier this year. It is unclear how long the Houthis can keep up the pace, since their ability to import replacement missiles has likely been damaged by Israeli and (prior) U.S. attacks. It is also unclear if, and how, Israel will respond.

Both President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have said in the past that Iran is ultimately responsible for Houthi attacks. Israel could conceivably use that as justification to attack Iran. (Read More)