by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent
(Worthy News) – Israeli air defenses intercepted a ballistic missile fired by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels early Wednesday, marking the second consecutive night and fourth attack in a week targeting central Israel in an escalating near-nightly pattern. The same day, the Houthis also launched a drone that crashed in an open area near Ashkelon in southern Israel, according to the Israel Defense Forces.
Sirens blared across central Israel, prompting millions to rush to bomb shelters as a precaution against falling debris from the intercepted missile.
This marked the fourth missile attack on Israel by the Houthis in less than a week, following strikes on Thursday, Saturday, and Tuesday.
Senior Houthi official Hezam al-Asad mocked Israel on X (formerly Twitter), writing in Hebrew: “How long can four million people be in shelters?” He added, “Run to the shelters, we repeatedly warned you to stop killing Gaza’s children.”
A Wall Street Journal report underscored mounting concerns in Washington and among international allies over the Houthis’ access to advanced missile and drone technologies supplied by Iran. Western sources also alleged Russian involvement, citing intelligence suggesting Western ships in the Red Sea are supplying the Houthis.
Following the IDF’s interception of a drone launched from Yemen on Monday, after two unsuccessful attempts to intercept ballistic missiles last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged Israelis to “remain patient and steadfast.” He also hinted at a coordinated international effort against the Houthis, potentially involving increased U.S. involvement.
“We will act with strength, determination, and ingenuity,” Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said on Monday. “Even if it takes time, the result will be the same as with other terrorist arms.” He vowed that Israel’s recent strike in Yemen “will not be the last.”
Israeli officials have reportedly discussed plans with their U.S. counterparts to escalate strikes against the Houthis, with American support. However, Ynet News cites sources indicating that Israel will likely intensify its attacks to a decisive level only after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump assumes office on January 20.
“The Houthis will pay a heavy price; there will be a ratcheting up of Israeli attacks,” an unnamed source told Ynet News. “But it’s nothing compared to what will happen once Trump enters office. The Americans are planning to impose an embargo on them and sanctions.”
Copyright 1999-2024 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
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