Yemen’s Houthi fighters have issued a four-day ultimatum to Israel, demanding the lifting of its blockade on aid to Gaza. If Israel does not comply, the Houthis threaten to resume their naval operations against the country. The announcement came late Friday, signaling a potential escalation from the group, which had reduced its attacks following a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas earlier this year.
In a video statement, Houthi leader Abdel-Malik al-Houthi emphasized the urgency of the situation. He stated that the deadline is meant to allow mediators to work towards a resolution. If Israel continues to block food, medicine, and other aid into Gaza after the four days, the Houthis will take military action against Israel.
The Houthis, who receive support from Iran, had previously launched over 100 attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden in response to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Their operations included sinking two vessels and seizing another, which disrupted global shipping routes and raised costs for companies that had to reroute their ships.
The group has also targeted Israel directly with missile and drone attacks, resulting in casualties and damage to infrastructure, including a school in Tel Aviv. The United States recently re-designated the Houthis as a terrorist organization, a move that adds pressure to the already tense situation.
As the Houthis issued their ultimatum, Hamas expressed support for their stance. The Palestinian group praised the Houthis for their ongoing assistance during the conflict in Gaza.
The blockade imposed by Israel has been in place for over a week and has led to severe shortages of essential supplies in Gaza. The United Nations and various human rights organizations have condemned the blockade, suggesting it may constitute a war crime. Reports indicate that rising prices and a lack of food and medical supplies are causing distress among the population.
Health authorities in Gaza have reported tragic outcomes, including the deaths of infants due to the cold, as families are forced to shelter in inadequate conditions. Hospitals are struggling to care for over 100,000 wounded individuals, with urgent needs for fuel and medical supplies.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the ongoing conflict resulting in a staggering death toll and extensive injuries among the civilian population. The coming days will be critical as the world watches how Israel and the Houthis respond to this latest escalation.