Houthi Leader Threatens Israel, US, Signals Regional Intervention
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi escalated political and military rhetoric, threatening Israel and the United States and signaling readiness to intervene alongside Iran.
- The group intensified internal mobilization and mass recruitment, despite deteriorating living conditions for millions of Yemenis.
- Al-Houthi also warned of potential Israeli presence in Somaliland and threatened intervention in the Horn of Africa, expanding his rhetoric beyond Yemen.
Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi delivered a televised address on Thursday, escalating his political and military rhetoric on both domestic and regional fronts. He issued threats against Israel and the United States, warned of potential attacks in Somalia, and indicated a readiness to intervene alongside Iran in any future regional conflict.
Al-Houthi's remarks coincided with an intensified campaign of internal mobilization and mass recruitment. This push for escalation persists despite the deteriorating living conditions of millions of Yemenis. The speech reiterated the group's unwavering stance toward the U.S. and Israel, pledging continued coordination with the "Axis of Resistance" and readiness for further escalation, particularly concerning Gaza or other regional fronts.
We will target any potential Israeli presence in the area by all available means.
The Houthi leader also congratulated Iran on its recent confrontation with Israel, framing it as a victory for the entire "Axis of Resistance." His rhetoric extended to the Horn of Africa, where he warned of Israeli efforts to establish a presence in Somaliland. Al-Houthi claimed this move aimed to secure control over the Gulf of Aden, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the Red Sea. He threatened to target any potential Israeli presence "by all available means" and urged Red Sea littoral states to unite against such a development.
Alongside this political escalation, the Houthis have intensified mobilization efforts ahead of Ashura. Large-scale events were organized in Sanaa and other Houthi-controlled areas. Local sources reported that Houthi supervisors conducted field campaigns, compelling residents, employees, and students to attend events, with attendance lists reportedly submitted to authorities. Many participants in Sanaa expressed attending under pressure, fearing harassment.
We are ready to participate in any future round of escalation, particularly if linked to the Gaza Strip or any other regional front.
Originally published by Asharq Al-Awsat in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.