Yemen's Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for a missile attack targeting Israel, according to statements from the group's military spokesperson, Yahya Saree. The attack, which the Houthis stated occurred on Friday, March 27, 2026, is described as a response to the ongoing war in Gaza and in support of Palestinians.
The Israeli military confirmed that it had intercepted a missile over the Red Sea area. The Israel Defense Forces stated that the missile was successfully tracked and shot down by its air defense systems before it could enter Israeli airspace, and no injuries or damage were reported.
This incident represents a significant geographical expansion of the regional conflict that began with the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, have repeatedly launched drones and missiles toward Israel and targeted international shipping in the Red Sea since the outbreak of the Gaza war.
Analysts note that the Houthi claim, while consistent with their declared stance, underscores the persistent risk of the Gaza conflict triggering a wider regional confrontation. The group controls much of northern Yemen, including the capital Sanaa, following years of civil war.
