What's happened
On May 14, 2025, Israel's military intercepted a missile fired by Houthi rebels from Yemen, marking a significant escalation in hostilities. The Houthis have targeted Israel multiple times, claiming solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing conflict. Israel has warned Yemenis to evacuate Houthi-held ports in anticipation of potential retaliation.
What's behind the headline?
Current Situation
- Israel's interception of Houthi missiles highlights the growing threat from Yemen, complicating regional security dynamics.
- The Houthis' continued missile attacks, despite a US ceasefire agreement, indicate their commitment to targeting Israel.
Implications
- Israel's warning to Yemenis to evacuate ports suggests potential military action, raising concerns about civilian safety.
- The US's shifting stance, halting attacks on Houthis while they continue to target Israel, leaves Israel isolated in its defense efforts.
Future Outlook
- Continued Houthi aggression could lead to further Israeli military responses, escalating the conflict.
- The situation remains fluid, with potential for broader regional implications as Iran's influence persists.
What the papers say
According to The New Arab, Israel's military intercepted a missile launched from Yemen, marking the third attack by the Houthis in less than 24 hours. The Houthis claimed responsibility, stating they targeted Ben Gurion International Airport. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar emphasized the disruption caused by these attacks, stating, 'Millions of Israelis are now running for shelter.' Meanwhile, Al Jazeera reported that the Houthis have launched numerous missiles and drones at Israel since March 18, coinciding with the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Times of Israel noted that US President Donald Trump's announcement to halt attacks on the Houthis has left Israel to confront the threat alone, raising concerns about the effectiveness of US policy in the region.
How we got here
The conflict escalated following the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas in October 2023. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have increasingly targeted Israel and shipping in the Red Sea, claiming their actions are in support of Palestine. Recent US involvement has complicated the situation further.
Go deeper
- What are the implications of the US halting attacks on Houthis?
- How has Israel responded to the recent missile threats?
- What is the current situation in Gaza related to this conflict?
Common question
-
What are the implications of Trump's recent actions on US-Syria relations?
President Trump's recent decisions regarding Syria have sparked significant interest and concern about their potential impact on the Middle East. With the lifting of sanctions and a historic meeting with Syria's interim president, many are left wondering how these changes will affect regional stability, US military strategy, and international relations. Below are some common questions and answers that delve into these pressing issues.
More on these topics
-
Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
-
Yemen, officially the Republic of Yemen, is a country at the southern end of the Arabian Peninsula in Western Asia. It is the second-largest Arab sovereign state in the peninsula, occupying 527,970 square kilometres.
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.