Description: Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeted Israel’s eastern town of Eilat, frequented by tourists, with drone attacks, injuring more than 20 people, two of whom were in critical condition. The attack is the latest in line of multiple over the past couple of months where the Houthis targeted Israel with drones and missiles in solidarity with the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. Israel has responded by launching its own aerial campaign on targets in Yemen, while in Aug, airstrikes managed to kill the self – proclaimed Houthi Prime Minister, Ahmed Al Rahawi. Israel in the interim, has expanded its military offensive on Gaza City, pushing troops, tanks supported by the Israeli air force deeper into the city, considered Hamas’ last stronghold within the Gaza Strip.
Impact: The Houthis, despite sustaining massive losses in the past couple of months, have managed to maintain pressure on Israel throughout constant aerial attacks with drones and missiles. The organization’s capacities have been significantly depleted since the 12 – Day War, where Iran, their largest supporter, lost the majority of its power to exert influence and enable assistance to its proxy groups such as the Houthis. After the assassination of their Prime Minister, the organization was under mounting pressure to restructure and conduct smooth transition of power, which has seemingly done so successfully. The Houthis would remain a mid – level threat to Israel and a high – level threat to the region, as their attacks in the Red Sea have caused major global maritime trade and transport disruptions.