29 Dec 2024 | 05:35 PM UTC
Israel: Further projectile fire from Yemen and Gaza targeting Israeli cities almost certain through January
Additional projectile attacks from Yemen and Gaza targeting Israel almost certain through at least end of January.
The Al-Houthis in northern Yemen will almost certainly continue launching projectile attacks, particularly using ballistic missiles and weaponized drones, against cities across Israel through at least the end of January. Hamas militants will also likely persist in firing rockets at southern Israeli towns near the Gaza Strip. The Al-Houthis began targeting Israel in October 2023 solidarity with the Palestinians and assert that their attacks will continue as long as Israeli military operations in Gaza persist.
Israel conducted four airstrike campaigns against Al-Houthi targets during 2024 and has indicated its intent to escalate operations. On Dec. 26, the Israeli military carried out retaliatory strikes against military and civilian infrastructure in response to sustained Al-Houthi projectile attacks. These strikes targeted Sana’a International Airport (SAH), the port of Al-Hudaydah, and power stations, among several other targets. Israeli authorities assert that the Al-Houthis employ such infrastructure for military activities.
The Al-Houthis’ attacks on Israel risk causing casualties and disrupting transport and business operations. Near-nightly missile launches have triggered rocket alerts in major cities, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and will likely continue for the foreseeable future.
Avoid the vicinity of the affected location until authorities have completely secured the area and given the all-clear. Heed the instructions of local security personnel. If incoming fire is reported in the general vicinity, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to the ground floor or basement. Maintain contact with your country's diplomatic mission.
The Al-Houthis, who seized control of Sana’a in 2014, have been engaged in a prolonged conflict with Yemen’s Aden-based government. They significantly advanced their drone and missile capabilities during their conflict with Saudi and Emirati forces, reaching a ceasefire in early 2022.
The Al-Houthis now present a distinct challenge for Israel, as they have not traditionally posed a direct threat to the country. Two factors complicate Israel’s efforts to degrade Al-Houthi military capabilities: the 2,000-km (1,200-mile) distance from northern Yemen to Israel and limited intelligence on Al-Houthi modus operandi. Gaining deeper insights into the group’s strategies and tactics will likely require significant time before Israel can effectively target its command and control and combat capacity.
