An ominous warning has been issued by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the death of the Houthi prime minister in an Israeli airstrike. “This is just the beginning,” Netanyahu stated, suggesting a broader campaign against the Yemeni rebel leadership is underway.
The strike, which Netanyahu described as a “fatal blow,” is Israel’s most significant retaliation for the Houthis’ persistent missile attacks and Red Sea disruptions. The group claims its actions are in support of the Palestinian cause.
The successful long-range mission demonstrates a major leap in Israel’s intelligence and operational capabilities. However, the operation was a partial success, as the Houthi chief of staff—reportedly the main target—was not among those killed.
The Houthis have promised to avenge the death of their prime minister, Ahmed Ghaleb Al Rahwi. While the strike will force the group’s leadership to be more cautious, experts doubt it will change the fundamental motivations driving their conflict with Israel.