Official statements from the U.S. Department of Defense or White House

Israel Targets Houthi Leaders in Yemen, Plans Long-Term Campaign Lasting Weeks with US Support

Dec 29, 2024, 07:37 AM

Israel is preparing to escalate its military operations against the Houthis in Yemen, targeting the group's leaders with the support of the United States. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the fight against the Houthis 'is only getting started,' signaling a long-term campaign. The Israeli military is enhancing intelligence gathering in Yemen, increasing attacks, and expanding cooperation with the U.S. The campaign is expected to last for weeks, with the Israeli army planning extensive offensive actions to severely impact Houthi leadership. Israeli intelligence has begun building a target bank against the Houthis with the help of other countries, and operations are anticipated to be longer than previously imagined, according to Israeli army leaders. A security source indicated that the Houthis are not expected to stop attacking Israel. Israeli officials are also concerned about potential consequences, such as disruptions at Ben Gurion Airport and increased missile launches from Yemen.