A missile launched from Yemen struck Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, prompting Israeli investigations into whether Israel was the intended target. The Israeli air force is on high alert due to heightened threats from the Houthis following US military operations in Yemen. US President Trump confirmed readiness to retaliate against Houthi attacks, while the Houthis resumed blockades on vessels linked to Israel in response to perceived violations of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
On Saturday night, a missile originating from Yemen impacted the southern Sinai Peninsula of Egypt, approximately 250 kilometers from Israel, as reported by Israeli media outlets. The missile landed close to Sharm El-Sheikh. Subsequently, the Israeli army launched an investigation to determine if Israel was the intended target, although confirmation of this has yet to be established.
Reports have indicated that the Israeli air force remains on high alert due to perceived threats from Yemen’s Ansarallah (Houthis), particularly following the commencement of US military operations in Yemen. The uptick in tensions has heightened security concerns in the region.
US President Donald Trump emphasized that the United States would respond decisively to attacks from the Houthis, stating, “We will use overwhelming lethal force until we have achieved our objective.” He characterized Houthi actions as disruptive to global maritime trade and a violation of free navigation.
In a related development, the Houthis announced a renewal of their blockade on vessels linked to Israel, specifically affecting transit through the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Bab Al-Mandeb Strait, and Gulf of Aden. This decision was made in response to what they termed Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Before this, the Houthis had momentarily ceased attacks on maritime traffic following a truce reached between Israel and Hamas on January 19.
This recent missile incident highlights escalating tensions in the region, particularly with Yemen’s Ansarallah (Houthis) and the threat they pose to maritime safety. The investigation by the Israeli army underscores concerns about potential targeting, while international responses, particularly from the US, emphasize a commitment to maintaining global navigation and trade routes. Continuing developments in this situation warrant close observation as they may impact regional stability.
Original Source: shafaq.com
