Yemen’s Houthi rebels have issued a stern warning to Israel, demanding that it lift its blockade on food, medicine, and aid entering Gaza within four days. Failure to do so will result in the Houthis resuming their “naval operations” against Israel, the group’s leader, Abdel-Malik al-Houthi, declared in a video statement.
The ultimatum, announced late Friday, signals a potential escalation from the Houthis, who had previously scaled back their attacks after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza earlier this year. The Houthis, backed by Iran, had launched over 100 attacks targeting ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, in response to Israel’s actions in Gaza. Their offensive disrupted global shipping and led to the sinking of vessels, the capture of another, and the death of at least four sailors.
In addition to these maritime strikes, the Houthis carried out missile and drone attacks on Israel, causing casualties and damage, including a hit on a school in Tel Aviv.
While the Houthis’ recent actions follow a pattern of supporting Palestinian groups, including Hamas, their threats come as Israel’s blockade on Gaza enters its seventh day. This blockade has sparked global concerns, with the United Nations and human rights groups calling it a possible war crime, as it has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The blockade has led to shortages of vital supplies like medicine and fuel, worsening the situation for those injured or displaced by the ongoing conflict.
The United States has re-designated the Houthis as a terrorist organization, while the Palestinians continue to call for immediate intervention to end the blockade and provide necessary aid. The Houthis have expressed their readiness to escalate their involvement if Israel’s actions in Gaza do not change.
The deadline set by the Houthis is a pivotal moment that could significantly alter the dynamics of the ongoing conflict.
