Emergence of Iranian-Backed Houthis as Immediate Threat Raises Concern in Israel
In a significant shift, the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have emerged as an immediate threat to Israel. Previously seen as a distant concern amidst ongoing conflicts in the region, the Houthis now demand the attention of Israeli authorities. With groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad in the occupied territories, and Iran extending its influence in Syria, Israel had more pressing security concerns closer to home.
However, the tide has turned. Since the start of the war, the Houthis have launched a series of cruise missiles and attack drones towards Israel, which were successfully intercepted by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), the United States, and possibly even Saudi Arabia. On a recent occasion, the Houthis took their aggression to the sea, hijacking a cargo ship owned by a British company with an Israeli partner. Although no Israelis were on board, this act of piracy further underscores the Houthis’ growing audacity and Iran’s involvement in their actions.
In response to the hijacking, the Prime Minister’s Office released a statement stating that this was an act of Iranian terrorism with international consequences. Israel holds Iran accountable for supporting the Houthis and expects the world to do the same. Israel aims to raise awareness that the threat extends beyond its borders and poses a risk to global shipping lanes, which are essential for international trade and stability.
Moving forward, there are several actions that should be taken to address this evolving threat. Firstly, it is crucial to communicate to Iran that the international community sees through its use of proxies as a way to perpetrate acts of terror. By doing so, the world can send a strong message that it will not tolerate Iran’s destabilizing activities. Secondly, the United States should swiftly reinstate the Houthis on its list of foreign terrorist organizations. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had designated them as such, but the Biden Administration removed them from the list, citing humanitarian concerns in Yemen. However, considering the Houthis’ continued aggression, it is imperative to classify them appropriately.
Israel also understands the need to respond to the Houthis’ actions effectively. While the immediate focus remains on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Israel acknowledges that it cannot ignore the threat posed by the Houthis indefinitely. Living in a neighborhood where enemies do not hesitate to attack, Israel believes it is necessary to extract a price from the Houthis at the appropriate time and place of its choosing.
In conclusion, the emergence of the Iranian-backed Houthis as an immediate threat is a cause for concern in Israel. Their recent actions, including missile and drone attacks, as well as the hijacking of a cargo ship, emphasize the need for decisive action. Israel calls on the international community to recognize the broader implications of the Houthis’ actions and holds Iran responsible for supporting this terrorist group. Moreover, the reinstatement of the Houthis on the US list of foreign terrorist organizations is crucial to sending a strong message. While Israel currently focuses on its ongoing conflict, it remains committed to addressing the Houthi threat in due course.
