Yemen’s Houthi militants launched a second wave of cruise missiles and drones at Israel on Saturday. The strike officially pulls the group into the month-old regional war between a US-Israeli coalition and Iran. The attack follows weeks of heavy US and Israeli bombardment of Iranian targets. US intelligence estimates the campaign has destroyed roughly a third of Tehran’s missile arsenal.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree confirmed the operation in a televised address. He stated the group directed a “barrage of cruise missiles and drones” at key Israeli military sites. The strikes occurred around 16:37 EDT. Saree vowed the military operations will continue in the coming days until the US and Israel cease their regional attacks.
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed the strikes. The military stated its aerial defense systems intercepted at least one incoming missile originating from Yemen. The Houthi entry marks their second direct attack on Israel in less than 24 hours, according to live updates from the region.
🇮🇷Iran-backed Houthis in 🇾🇪Yemen have now actively entered the conflict. they launched their first ballistic missile attack on Israel.
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree claimed responsibility in a televised statement, framing it as support for Iran
— Yonams G. (@YonamsG) March 28, 2026
The Houthi intervention dramatically widens a conflict that ignited in late February 2026. The Iran-aligned Axis of Resistance launched massive regional counter-attacks in retaliation for the destruction of infrastructure across Lebanon, Iraq, and Palestinian territories. Recent strikes damaged radar systems at Kuwait International Airport and wounded at least 12 US soldiers at the Prince Sultan airbase in Saudi Arabia.
Global energy markets face immediate threats from the escalating violence. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards previously choked off commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Experts warn the Houthi escalation places the Bab al-Mandab Strait in the Red Sea at direct risk. The dual threats raise the possibility of simultaneous disruptions at two of the Middle East’s most vital maritime chokepoints.
Diplomatic efforts remain deadlocked. Pakistan is currently attempting to mediate peace talks. US President Donald Trump claims negotiations are ongoing. Tehran firmly denies the existence of any formal diplomatic channels.