In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, the Houthis launched several attacks against Israel on March 28, 2026. This marks the first military action by the Iran-backed group, which is based in Yemen, since the conflict began.
The Houthis claimed responsibility for a series of ballistic missile and drone strikes targeting sensitive military objectives in southern Israel. Yahya Saree, a spokesperson for the Yemeni Armed Forces, stated, “The Yemeni Armed Forces […] carried out the first military operation, namely a salvo of ballistic missiles, which targeted sensitive military objectives of the Israeli enemy in the south of occupied Palestine.”
This military action comes just one month after the United States and Israel initiated a military campaign against Iran on February 28, 2026. The Houthis had previously refrained from direct involvement in the conflict, despite having launched hundreds of drones and missiles during the war between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7, 2023.
As the situation unfolds, the Houthis have pledged to continue their military actions in support of Iran and other resistance fronts. The attacks on Israel have raised concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region.
Since the start of the conflict, approximately 1,937 people have been killed in Iran, including 230 children. In Lebanon, the toll has reached 1,189 since March 2, 2026, with 51 healthcare workers among the casualties. The humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict is severe, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence, as noted by analyst Mohamed Vall.
Experts suggest that the Houthis aim to disrupt Israeli trade routes and economically impact the nation. Yousef Mawry remarked, “They want to make Israel pay economically. They want to disrupt their trade routes.” This strategy indicates a broader regional ambition beyond immediate military objectives.
As the Houthis continue to assert their military capabilities, the international community watches closely. The potential for direct military intervention remains a concern, with Yahya Saree stating, “The Houthis’ fingers are on the trigger for direct military intervention.”
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the attacks and their immediate consequences. However, the situation is rapidly evolving, and further developments are anticipated in the coming days.