Yemen’s Huthi rebels continue to pose a significant threat to Israel, even as Iran’s influence is weakened. The rebels have launched near-daily strikes against Israel from 2,000 kilometers away, disrupting civilian life and complicating Israeli military responses. Analysts predict a possible targeting strategy akin to that used against Hezbollah. However, the effectiveness of such measures remains uncertain amidst a volatile regional backdrop.
Analysts assert that despite the substantial weakening of Iran’s capability to project its influence due to Israeli military operations against its regional proxies, Yemen’s Huthi rebels continue to represent a significant threat to Israel. As allies such as Hamas and Hezbollah are diminished, the Huthis have emerged as a primary concern for Israeli national security. With a vast territory in Yemen under their control, the Huthis consistently execute missile and drone strikes targeting Israel, reflecting their strategic engagement.
The distance of nearly 2,000 kilometers complicates Israel’s military response, as it limits the frequency of targeted strikes and any actionable intelligence regarding the Huthis. Analysts suggest that Israel may employ strategies akin to those used against Hezbollah, such as targeting Huthi leadership and disrupting supply lines. However, the effectiveness of these strategies remains uncertain, especially as the Huthis continue their offensive operations against Israel.
In recent weeks, despite minimal physical damage due to advanced defense systems, the Huthis’ near-daily attacks have substantially disrupted civilian life in urban centers like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The Israeli air force has commenced retaliatory operations against the Huthis, striking key targets, including facilities in Yemen’s capital.
Furthermore, the involvement of the United States in countering Huthi threats has intensified, with efforts to protect maritime interests in the Red Sea. However, some experts express skepticism regarding Israel’s ability to mitigate the ongoing threat efficiently due to the complexities of regional dynamics and the Huthis’ resiliency. The potential for a collective response from Israel and Gulf states against the Huthis might emerge, particularly with changing political landscapes in the United States and the Middle East.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has seen the Huthi rebels, backed by Iran, exert control over significant territories, including the capital Sana’a. Their rebellion, which began in 2014, has drawn international attention due to its implications for regional stability and security. As Israel faces heightened threats from groups tied to Iran, such as Hamas and Hezbollah, the persistence of the Huthis underscores the complexities stemming from Iran’s influence across the Middle East, despite recent setbacks. The strategic nature of the Huthis’ attacks highlights the distance-related challenges that Israel encounters when contemplating defensive operations.
In conclusion, while Israel has successfully undermined the operational capabilities of several Iranian-affiliated groups, the Huthi rebels remain a formidable challenge due to their sustained offensive capabilities and strategic positioning. The complexity of addressing this threat is exacerbated by geographic and intelligence limitations. As the situation evolves, both Israel and its partners face critical decisions regarding their response to the persistent menace posed by the Huthis.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
