US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to reinstate the "foreign terrorist organisation" designation for Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, the White House announced on Wednesday (Jan 22).
Former president Joe Biden had lifted that label when he took over the White House from Trump in 2021, before calling them a "specially designated global terrorist" entity, a slightly less severe classification that still allowed for humanitarian aid to reach the war-torn country.
<h2 dir="ltr">Humanitarian organisations' concerns influenced Biden&rsquo;s decision</h2>
Biden's decision was shaped by concerns from humanitarian organisations, who warned that they would have to pull out of Yemen if the US didn't adjust its approach. The issue was that these organisations had to work with the Houthi rebels, who control much of the country, including the capital Sanaa.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laken-riley-act-us-congress-passes-trump-crackdown-on-migrant-criminals-and-suspects-8645556">Laken Riley Act: US Congress passes Trump's hardline immigration crackdown bill</a>
To address this, the Biden administration made a distinction between designating the Houthis as terrorists and allowing humanitarian aid to continue flowing into Yemen.
His administration argued that taking the Houthis off the FTO list was necessary for civilians in Yemen to have better access to aid amid a bloody civil war.
<h2 dir="ltr">Houthis carried over 100 attacks on merchant ships</h2>
The recent move grants the US government additional sanctions authority, giving Trump more tools to go after the Iran-backed Yemeni terror group.
"The Houthis' activities threaten the security of American civilians and personnel in the Middle East, the safety of our closest regional partners, and the stability of global maritime trade," the White House said in a statement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-cancels-travel-plans-for-thousands-of-refugees-approved-to-resettle-in-us-8645135">Trump administration cancels travel plans for thousands of refugees approved to resettle in US</a>
The Houthis, who control most of Yemen, have carried out over 100 attacks on ships in the Red Sea since November 2023. They claim these actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amidst Israel's conflict with Hamas in Gaza. They have sunk two vessels, seized another, and caused the deaths of at least four seafarers.
The attacks have disrupted global shipping, compelling companies to redirect their routes through longer and costlier journeys around southern Africa for over a year.
The implementation of this order is expected to take several weeks.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: US President Donald Trump has reinstated the "foreign terrorist organisation" label for Yemen's Houthi rebels, a move aimed at countering Iran's influence in the region.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to reinstate the "foreign terrorist organisation" designation for Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, the White House announced on Wednesday (Jan 22). Former president Joe Biden had lifted that label when he took over the White House from Trump in 2021, before calling them a "specially designated global terrorist" entity, a slightly less severe classification that still allowed for humanitarian aid to reach the war-torn country. Humanitarian organisations' concerns influenced Biden’s decision Biden's decision was shaped by concerns from humanitarian organisations, who warned that they would have to pull out of Yemen if the US didn't adjust its approach. The issue was that these organisations had to work with the Houthi rebels, who control much of the country, including the capital Sanaa. Also read | Laken Riley Act: US Congress passes Trump's hardline immigration crackdown bill To address this, the Biden administration made a distinction between designating the Houthis as terrorists and allowing humanitarian aid to continue flowing into Yemen. His administration argued that taking the Houthis off the FTO list was necessary for civilians in Yemen to have better access to aid amid a bloody civil war. Houthis carried over 100 attacks on merchant ships The recent move grants the US government additional sanctions authority, giving Trump more tools to go after the Iran-backed Yemeni terror group. "The Houthis' activities threaten the security of American civilians and personnel in the Middle East, the safety of our closest regional partners, and the stability of global maritime trade," the White House said in a statement. Also read | Trump administration cancels travel plans for thousands of refugees approved to resettle in US The Houthis, who control most of Yemen, have carried out over 100 attacks on ships in the Red Sea since November 2023. They claim these actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amidst Israel's conflict with Hamas in Gaza. They have sunk two vessels, seized another, and caused the deaths of at least four seafarers. The attacks have disrupted global shipping, compelling companies to redirect their routes through longer and costlier journeys around southern Africa for over a year. The implementation of this order is expected to take several weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump re-designates Iranian-backed Houthi rebels as ‘foreign terrorist organisation’

Following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas to end the conflict in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-announcement-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-a-look-at-the-key-events-of-the-war-8626882">Gaza</a> starting on Sunday, forces in Iraq and Yemen have said that they will suspend their attacks on Israel.
Although the Israeli cabinet, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has yet to confirm the deal, key mediators have announced the agreement between the two sides. The ceasefire has also been welcomed within the Iran-led Axis of Resistance.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-stalled-by-israels-netanyahu-hamas-denies-backtracking-claims-8627077">Netanyahu stalls Gaza ceasefire deal until Hamas drops &lsquo;last-minute concessions&rsquo;; group denies backtracking</a>
<h2>'If they return, we will return'</h2>
Akram al-Kaabi, the secretary-general of the Nujaba Movement, said in a statement published on Wednesday, &ldquo;With this important development, we announce that we will suspend our military operations against the entity in solidarity with its halt in Palestine, and to strengthen the continuation of the truce in Gaza.&rdquo;&nbsp;
However, he also warned, &ldquo;Let the usurping entity know that any foolishness on its part in Palestine or the region will be met with a harsh response, and that our fingers are still on the trigger and our missiles and drones are fully prepared. If they return, we will return.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-keir-starmer-in-ukraine-to-sign-landmark-100-year-partnership-8627144">British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it?</a>
Mohammed Abdul Salam, a spokesperson for Yemen&rsquo;s Houthi Movement, also announced the group&rsquo;s decision to end its operations against Israel, adding that their &ldquo;battle [is] reaching its conclusion with the declaration of a ceasefire in Gaza.&rdquo; However, he said that Israel&rsquo;s &ldquo;continued occupation of Palestine represents a threat to the security and stability of the region.&rdquo;
Iran&rsquo;s Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) also lauded the ceasefire, describing it as a &ldquo;victory&rdquo; for Hamas. The IRGC said in a statement, &ldquo;The end of the war and the imposition of a ceasefire&hellip; is a clear victory and a great victory for Palestine and a bigger defeat for the monstrous Zionist regime.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-inauguration-these-top-leaders-and-billionaires-will-attend-the-mega-event-8627312">Trump&rsquo;s inauguration: THESE top leaders and billionaires will attend the mega event</a>
Qatar and the United States, as key mediators, confirmed the agreement. Qatar&rsquo;s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, announced on Wednesday that the ceasefire would begin on Sunday, January 19, marking the start of phase one of the agreement. During this initial phase, 33 Israeli hostages are expected to be released over 42 days.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Qatar and the United States, as key mediators, confirmed the agreement. Qatar’s Prime Minister announced on Wednesday that the ceasefire would begin on January 19,

Following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas to end the conflict in Gaza starting on Sunday, forces in Iraq and Yemen have said that they will suspend their attacks on Israel. Although the Israeli cabinet, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has yet to confirm the deal, key mediators have announced the agreement between the two sides. The ceasefire has also been welcomed within the Iran-led Axis of Resistance. Also read: Netanyahu stalls Gaza ceasefire deal until Hamas drops ‘last-minute concessions’; group denies backtracking 'If they return, we will return' Akram al-Kaabi, the secretary-general of the Nujaba Movement, said in a statement published on Wednesday, “With this important development, we announce that we will suspend our military operations against the entity in solidarity with its halt in Palestine, and to strengthen the continuation of the truce in Gaza.” However, he also warned, “Let the usurping entity know that any foolishness on its part in Palestine or the region will be met with a harsh response, and that our fingers are still on the trigger and our missiles and drones are fully prepared. If they return, we will return.” Also read: British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it? Mohammed Abdul Salam, a spokesperson for Yemen’s Houthi Movement, also announced the group’s decision to end its operations against Israel, adding that their “battle [is] reaching its conclusion with the declaration of a ceasefire in Gaza.” However, he said that Israel’s “continued occupation of Palestine represents a threat to the security and stability of the region.” Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) also lauded the ceasefire, describing it as a “victory” for Hamas. The IRGC said in a statement, “The end of the war and the imposition of a ceasefire… is a clear victory and a great victory for Palestine and a bigger defeat for the monstrous Zionist regime.” Also read: Trump’s inauguration: THESE top leaders and billionaires will attend the mega event Qatar and the United States, as key mediators, confirmed the agreement. Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, announced on Wednesday that the ceasefire would begin on Sunday, January 19, marking the start of phase one of the agreement. During this initial phase, 33 Israeli hostages are expected to be released over 42 days. (With inputs from agencies)

‘If they return, we will return’: Iraq, Yemen forces to halt attacks on Israel after Gaza ceasefire

The Yemeni Houthi group announced another attack against a US aircraft carrier in the Red Sea amid tensions between the group and the US, UK, and Israel. Watch this report for more details!

Houthi military claims attack on US aircraft carrier

After striking Houthi targets in Yemen on Friday (Jan 10), the Israeli military warned that it would hunt down the leaders of the Iran-backed rebel group.&nbsp;
The Houthis have attacked Israel in what they have said is a show of solidarity to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hope-new-lebanon-president-will-help-achieve-stability-says-israel-8605572" rel="dofollow">West Asia crisis: Hope new Lebanon president will help achieve 'stability,' says Israel</a>
In a statement, the Israeli military said, "A short while ago... fighter jets struck military targets belonging to the Houthi terrorist regime on the western coast and inland Yemen."
The military said that the strikes were carried out in retaliation for the rebel group's missile and drone launches into Israel.
<h2>'Houthis are paying, will continue to pay...'</h2>
Following the strikes, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the Houthis were being punished for their repeated attacks on his country.
"As we promised, the Houthis are paying, and they will continue to pay, a heavy price for their aggression against us," Netanyahu said, vowing not to tolerate attacks against Israel.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-houthi-gamble-an-unlikely-force-shaping-west-asia-8584677" rel="dofollow">The Houthi Gamble: An unlikely force shaping West Asia</a>
"The Houthis are a proxy of Iran and they serve the terrorist objectives of the Iranian axis in the Middle East," he said, adding the group posed a "danger to Israel" and the region.
<h2>'Will hunt down leaders of Houthi...'</h2>
Israel's Defence Israel Katz said that his country would hunt down leaders of Houthi.
"The Hodeida port is paralysed, and the Ras Issa port is on fire -&ndash; there will be no immunity for anyone", Defence Minister Katz said in a video statement.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Israeli military said that the strikes were carried out in retaliation for the rebel group's missile and drone launches into Israel.

After striking Houthi targets in Yemen on Friday (Jan 10), the Israeli military warned that it would hunt down the leaders of the Iran-backed rebel group. The Houthis have attacked Israel in what they have said is a show of solidarity to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023. Also read | West Asia crisis: Hope new Lebanon president will help achieve 'stability,' says Israel In a statement, the Israeli military said, "A short while ago... fighter jets struck military targets belonging to the Houthi terrorist regime on the western coast and inland Yemen." The military said that the strikes were carried out in retaliation for the rebel group's missile and drone launches into Israel. 'Houthis are paying, will continue to pay...' Following the strikes, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the Houthis were being punished for their repeated attacks on his country. "As we promised, the Houthis are paying, and they will continue to pay, a heavy price for their aggression against us," Netanyahu said, vowing not to tolerate attacks against Israel. Also read | The Houthi Gamble: An unlikely force shaping West Asia "The Houthis are a proxy of Iran and they serve the terrorist objectives of the Iranian axis in the Middle East," he said, adding the group posed a "danger to Israel" and the region. 'Will hunt down leaders of Houthi...' Israel's Defence Israel Katz said that his country would hunt down leaders of Houthi. "The Hodeida port is paralysed, and the Ras Issa port is on fire -– there will be no immunity for anyone", Defence Minister Katz said in a video statement.

West Asia crisis: After striking Houthi targets, Israel warns it will hunt its leaders

Yemen’s Houthi rebels claim responsibility for targeting Israel’s power plant with ballistic missiles, escalating tensions in the region.

Yemen's Houthis claim to target Israel's power plant with ballistic missiles

Emerging in the 1990s as a resistance movement against the corrupt Yemen government, the Houthis soon gained popularity as an armed political and religious group which champions Yemen's Shia Muslim minority, the Zaidis. Forcing the country&rsquo;s internationally recognized government to flee to the southern city of Aden in 2014, the Houthis have established themselves as the de facto government of Yemen.&nbsp; &nbsp; Declaring to be a part of the Iranian-led "Axis of resistance" against Israel, the US, and the wider West, the Houthis have built their ideology targeting them, as evident in their slogan &ldquo;Death to America, death to Israel, curse upon the Jews, victory to Islam&rdquo;. &nbsp; Formerly known as the Ansar Allah (Partisans of God), little is known about their leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi. Sanctioned by both, the U.S. Treasury and the UN Security Council from 2015, al-Houthi was still able to create a defiant force that would challenge the world powers.&nbsp; &nbsp; Despite their affinity for Iran, the Houthis deny being puppets of Tehran. What brings Houthis close to Iran and its proxies is the common dissatisfaction with the status quo of West Asia, one which is largely influenced by the US and its partners, especially Israel and Saudi Arabia. &nbsp; Since Hamas' 7 October 2023 attack on Israel and Israel's retaliatory military offensive in Gaza, the Houthis have intensified their attacks on Israel, the Red Sea and the US instalments in the region. The Houthis have since intensified their manpower and arsenal. The number of Houthi fighters is estimated at 350,000 now, compared with 220,000 in 2022 and 30,000 in 2015. Within the Axis, the militia has coordinated with the Iraq-based Islamic Resistance in their attacks against Israel.&nbsp;
Houthi Arsenal- A Growing Threat &nbsp; Defunct Yemeni military weapons purchased from the Soviet Union and North Korea played a critical role in the initial Houthi attacks. In recent years Houthis have bolstered their arsenal, and analysts credit this expansion to covert support from Iran, which has supplied weapons to all its proxies across West Asia.&nbsp; &nbsp; To challenge Saudi Arabia, its regional nemesis, Iran has equipped Houthis with relatively cheap weapons capable of striking far beyond Yemen's borders. From 2015 to 2024, the US and its coalition partners intercepted at least 20 ships transporting Iranian missiles and advanced weapons to the Houthis.&nbsp;
The reach and sophistication of their weapons were exhibited in their first attack on Tel Aviv on 19 July 2024. Without being detected by the radars, the Yaffa drone manoeuvred its way from Yemen and approached Tel Aviv from the west to attack.&nbsp;
The Houthis further amplified attacks using their newly unveiled Palestine-2 hypersonic ballistic missiles in December 2024. With better precision and strike rates, the Houthis claimed at least 12 attacks on Israel since 11 December 2024. &nbsp;
Freedom of Navigation Crisis: War spills in the Red Sea &nbsp; In an ostensible effort to enforce a naval blockade on Israel, the Houthis pivoted their attention to maritime targets in the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Aden. &nbsp; Attacking vessels linked directly or indirectly to Israel and its allies with the same agility and showmanship, the Houthis delivered their first propaganda victory by hijacking a Bahamas-flagged vessel on 19 November 2023. Subsequently, between November 2023 and August 2024, the Houthis attempted 159 attacks in the southern Red Sea, 70 in the Gulf of Aden, 45 in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and 2 in the western Arabian Sea.
Rising attacks led the shipping companies to opt for longer routes, adding an extra cost of $1 million for fuel. The war risk insurance premium for ships rose to 2% in 2024, up from just 0.05% before the crisis began. As a result of this disruption, Egypt suffered economically, losing over 60%, or $7 billion, of the revenue generated from the Suez Canal in 2024. &nbsp; In response to these regional assaults, the US and its allies announced Operation Prosperity Guardian on 18 December 2023 and Operation Poseidon on 9 January 2024. In the latest salvo carried out on 30 and 31 December 2024, the US attacks struck a command node, and facilities used for manufacturing and storing ammunitions, and destroyed radar positions and one-way aerial drones.&nbsp; &nbsp; Houthi Ascendancy: Israel's Constraints and the Search for Solutions &nbsp; Predominantly viewed as a local threat by most international observers, Houthis locus standi changed after the Hamas-led 7 October attacks against Israel.&nbsp;
As a result of their attacks on commercial ships, 50 nations have been affected, crews from more than 20 countries have been threatened or taken hostage in acts of piracy, and 2,000 ships have been forced to divert their routes.&nbsp; &nbsp; In addition, the militia has successfully tilted the local balance of power in their favour. Today, Saudi Arabia and the UAE do not want to embroil themselves in yet another intractable conflict with the Houthis. Meanwhile, Egypt is focusing on preventing a humanitarian catastrophe, which might have repercussions for its already precarious economy. &nbsp; Among the "axis of resistance", the Houthis remain the only defiant force attacking Israel, with top Hamas leaders assassinated and a ceasefire observed with Hezbollah.&nbsp;
In an escalating statement, Israel announced that it will begin targeting Houthi leaders. However, killing leaders of this distant foe would be challenging for Israel. The lack of intelligence on Houthi leaders, reliance on allies to conduct counter-strikes against Houthi attacks, and the distance between the two countries, hinder the IDF's ability to operate swiftly. &nbsp; Israel needs indispensable international support to stop the barrage of airstrikes by the Houthis. A more assertive coalition to thwart Houthis&rsquo; ability to smuggle weapons and intelligence liaison from nations that have fought with Houthis previously are prerequisites to weakening Houthis. If Israel and its allies fail to address the Houthi threat, it will only grow. &nbsp;

To challenge Saudi Arabia, its regional nemesis, Iran has equipped Houthis with relatively cheap weapons capable of striking far beyond Yemen's borders. From 2015 to 2024, the US and its coalition partners intercepted at least 20 ships transporting Iranian missiles and advanced weapons to the Houthis. 

Emerging in the 1990s as a resistance movement against the corrupt Yemen government, the Houthis soon gained popularity as an armed political and religious group which champions Yemen's Shia Muslim minority, the Zaidis. Forcing the country’s internationally recognized government to flee to the southern city of Aden in 2014, the Houthis have established themselves as the de facto government of Yemen. Declaring to be a part of the Iranian-led "Axis of resistance" against Israel, the US, and the wider West, the Houthis have built their ideology targeting them, as evident in their slogan “Death to America, death to Israel, curse upon the Jews, victory to Islam”. Formerly known as the Ansar Allah (Partisans of God), little is known about their leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi. Sanctioned by both, the U.S. Treasury and the UN Security Council from 2015, al-Houthi was still able to create a defiant force that would challenge the world powers. Despite their affinity for Iran, the Houthis deny being puppets of Tehran. What brings Houthis close to Iran and its proxies is the common dissatisfaction with the status quo of West Asia, one which is largely influenced by the US and its partners, especially Israel and Saudi Arabia. Since Hamas' 7 October 2023 attack on Israel and Israel's retaliatory military offensive in Gaza, the Houthis have intensified their attacks on Israel, the Red Sea and the US instalments in the region. The Houthis have since intensified their manpower and arsenal. The number of Houthi fighters is estimated at 350,000 now, compared with 220,000 in 2022 and 30,000 in 2015. Within the Axis, the militia has coordinated with the Iraq-based Islamic Resistance in their attacks against Israel. Houthi Arsenal- A Growing Threat Defunct Yemeni military weapons purchased from the Soviet Union and North Korea played a critical role in the initial Houthi attacks. In recent years Houthis have bolstered their arsenal, and analysts credit this expansion to covert support from Iran, which has supplied weapons to all its proxies across West Asia. To challenge Saudi Arabia, its regional nemesis, Iran has equipped Houthis with relatively cheap weapons capable of striking far beyond Yemen's borders. From 2015 to 2024, the US and its coalition partners intercepted at least 20 ships transporting Iranian missiles and advanced weapons to the Houthis. The reach and sophistication of their weapons were exhibited in their first attack on Tel Aviv on 19 July 2024. Without being detected by the radars, the Yaffa drone manoeuvred its way from Yemen and approached Tel Aviv from the west to attack. The Houthis further amplified attacks using their newly unveiled Palestine-2 hypersonic ballistic missiles in December 2024. With better precision and strike rates, the Houthis claimed at least 12 attacks on Israel since 11 December 2024. Freedom of Navigation Crisis: War spills in the Red Sea In an ostensible effort to enforce a naval blockade on Israel, the Houthis pivoted their attention to maritime targets in the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Aden. Attacking vessels linked directly or indirectly to Israel and its allies with the same agility and showmanship, the Houthis delivered their first propaganda victory by hijacking a Bahamas-flagged vessel on 19 November 2023. Subsequently, between November 2023 and August 2024, the Houthis attempted 159 attacks in the southern Red Sea, 70 in the Gulf of Aden, 45 in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and 2 in the western Arabian Sea. Rising attacks led the shipping companies to opt for longer routes, adding an extra cost of $1 million for fuel. The war risk insurance premium for ships rose to 2% in 2024, up from just 0.05% before the crisis began. As a result of this disruption, Egypt suffered economically, losing over 60%, or $7 billion, of the revenue generated from the Suez Canal in 2024. In response to these regional assaults, the US and its allies announced Operation Prosperity Guardian on 18 December 2023 and Operation Poseidon on 9 January 2024. In the latest salvo carried out on 30 and 31 December 2024, the US attacks struck a command node, and facilities used for manufacturing and storing ammunitions, and destroyed radar positions and one-way aerial drones. Houthi Ascendancy: Israel's Constraints and the Search for Solutions Predominantly viewed as a local threat by most international observers, Houthis locus standi changed after the Hamas-led 7 October attacks against Israel. As a result of their attacks on commercial ships, 50 nations have been affected, crews from more than 20 countries have been threatened or taken hostage in acts of piracy, and 2,000 ships have been forced to divert their routes. In addition, the militia has successfully tilted the local balance of power in their favour. Today, Saudi Arabia and the UAE do not want to embroil themselves in yet another intractable conflict with the Houthis. Meanwhile, Egypt is focusing on preventing a humanitarian catastrophe, which might have repercussions for its already precarious economy. Among the "axis of resistance", the Houthis remain the only defiant force attacking Israel, with top Hamas leaders assassinated and a ceasefire observed with Hezbollah. In an escalating statement, Israel announced that it will begin targeting Houthi leaders. However, killing leaders of this distant foe would be challenging for Israel. The lack of intelligence on Houthi leaders, reliance on allies to conduct counter-strikes against Houthi attacks, and the distance between the two countries, hinder the IDF's ability to operate swiftly. Israel needs indispensable international support to stop the barrage of airstrikes by the Houthis. A more assertive coalition to thwart Houthis’ ability to smuggle weapons and intelligence liaison from nations that have fought with Houthis previously are prerequisites to weakening Houthis. If Israel and its allies fail to address the Houthi threat, it will only grow.

The Houthi Gamble: An unlikely force shaping West Asia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/israel" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Israel</a>, for the first time, used the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-thaad-to-israel-what-you-should-know-about-this-powerful-missile-defence-system-767195">American Terminal High Altitude Area Defense</a> (THAAD) missile defence system to intercept a ballistic missile launched from Yemen on Friday (Dec 27), The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;
The missile was fired by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, according to reports.
The US deployed the THAAD system in Israel in October. This marks the first time, Israel used the system to intercept a ballistic missile.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-terrorist-stronghold-israeli-forces-evacuate-kamal-adwan-hospital-in-northern-gaza-8571717" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Israeli forces evacuate Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza</a>
The footage of the system launch was circulated on social media, in which an American soldier was heard saying, "Eighteen years I've been waiting for this."&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m587jbf7-bhov8gy0-bhhu4ko8">
מערכת ה- THAAD האמריקנית לקחה חלק ביירוט הטיל הבליסטי ששוגר אמש מתימן. אפשר לשמוע את אחד החיילים האמריקניים מתרגש "18 שנים חיכיתי לזה" <a href="https://t.co/s4VoMfMhaF">pic.twitter.com/s4VoMfMhaF</a>
&mdash; איתי בלומנטל 🇮🇱 Itay Blumental (@ItayBlumental) <a href="https://twitter.com/ItayBlumental/status/1872649121498296761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
The THAAD, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System was used to try to intercept the missile and an analysis would determine THAAD's success, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters, reported The Times of Israel.&nbsp;
However, Israel did not claim whether they used an Israeli or an American system.&nbsp;
The IDF said the Houthi missile was intercepted by air defenses, without specifying if this was an Israeli or American system.
<h2 class="left">What is the THAAD System?</h2>
Following Iran's October 1 ballistic missile attack, the US deployed a THAAD battery in Israel. The system is capable of intercepting missiles both inside and outside of the Earth's atmosphere.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-houthis-uncover-mossad-cia-spy-network-as-israel-shifts-focus-to-yemen-8566732" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Also read: Houthis &lsquo;uncover&rsquo; Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen</a>
THAAD relies on kinetic energy to neutralise threats and destroy incoming missiles through impact rather than an explosive warhead.
Further, a standard THAAD battery includes six truck-mounted launchers and each of them is capable of holding up to eight interceptors, along with a radar and a fire control system.&nbsp;
The system can detect threats from a range of 870 to 3,000 kilometres.&nbsp;
In the past eight days, this is the fifth such attack by the Iran-backed Houthi group on Israel.
&nbsp;Houthis had earlier claimed to have targeted Ben Gurion Airport after which Israel retaliated and launched strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including the Hezyaz power plant and infrastructure at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-tedros-narrowly-escaped-israeli-attack-on-yemen-airport-8573279">Sanaa International Airport</a>.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: THAAD, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System was used to try to intercept the missile and an analysis would determine THAAD's success.

Israel, for the first time, used the American Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defence system to intercept a ballistic missile launched from Yemen on Friday (Dec 27), The Times of Israel reported. The missile was fired by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, according to reports. The US deployed the THAAD system in Israel in October. This marks the first time, Israel used the system to intercept a ballistic missile. Also read: Israeli forces evacuate Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza The footage of the system launch was circulated on social media, in which an American soldier was heard saying, "Eighteen years I've been waiting for this." Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. מערכת ה- THAAD האמריקנית לקחה חלק ביירוט הטיל הבליסטי ששוגר אמש מתימן. אפשר לשמוע את אחד החיילים האמריקניים מתרגש "18 שנים חיכיתי לזה" pic.twitter.com/s4VoMfMhaF — איתי בלומנטל 🇮🇱 Itay Blumental (@ItayBlumental) December 27, 2024 The THAAD, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System was used to try to intercept the missile and an analysis would determine THAAD's success, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters, reported The Times of Israel. However, Israel did not claim whether they used an Israeli or an American system. The IDF said the Houthi missile was intercepted by air defenses, without specifying if this was an Israeli or American system. What is the THAAD System? Following Iran's October 1 ballistic missile attack, the US deployed a THAAD battery in Israel. The system is capable of intercepting missiles both inside and outside of the Earth's atmosphere. Also read: Houthis ‘uncover’ Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen THAAD relies on kinetic energy to neutralise threats and destroy incoming missiles through impact rather than an explosive warhead. Further, a standard THAAD battery includes six truck-mounted launchers and each of them is capable of holding up to eight interceptors, along with a radar and a fire control system. The system can detect threats from a range of 870 to 3,000 kilometres. In the past eight days, this is the fifth such attack by the Iran-backed Houthi group on Israel. Houthis had earlier claimed to have targeted Ben Gurion Airport after which Israel retaliated and launched strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including the Hezyaz power plant and infrastructure at Sanaa International Airport. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Israel uses US THAAD system for first time to intercept Houthi missile. What is it?

The Israeli military on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes at multiple locations in Yemen including the Sanaa International Airport. According to a report by the news agency AFP, three people were killed in the strikes.
The strikes targeting the airport, military facilities and power stations in rebel areas follow rising hostilities between Israel and the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, part of Iran's "axis of resistance" alliance against Israel.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-houthis-uncover-mossad-cia-spy-network-as-israel-shifts-focus-to-yemen-8566732" rel="dofollow">Houthis &lsquo;uncover&rsquo; Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen</a>
The other targets included facilities at Hodeida, Salif and Ras Kanatib ports. In a statement, the Israeli military said that these locations were being used by the Houthi rebels to smuggle&nbsp;Iranian weapons into the region and for the entry of senior Iranian officials.&nbsp;
<h2>WHO chief was at Sanaa airport during strike</h2>
World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that he was at the Sanaa International Airport when it was hit by the Israeli strike.
Tedros said that "one of our plane's crew members was injured." The WHO chief was in Yemen to seek the release of detained UN staff and assess the humanitarian situation in the war-torn country.
Tedros said that his team were about to board their flight when the airport came under aerial bombardment.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, in a statement, Houthi rebels said that two people were killed and 11 others were injured during the strike at the airport.
<h2>'Israeli strikes would continue until job is done'</h2>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel's strikes would continue until the job was done.
"We are determined to cut this branch of terrorism from the Iranian axis of evil," Prime Minister Netanyahu said in a video statement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-to-target-houthi-leaders-says-will-act-against-them-to-remove-threat-786542" rel="dofollow">Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat'</a>
Since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, Houthis have &nbsp;fired drones and missiles towards Israel in what they describe as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
More than a year of&nbsp;Houthi&nbsp;attacks have disrupted international shipping routes, forcing firms to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys that have in turn stoked fears over global inflation.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
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Israeli media has reported that the IDF has carried out against Houthis in response to the rebels' recent ballistic missile and drone attacks on Israel. 

The Israeli military on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes at multiple locations in Yemen including the Sanaa International Airport. According to a report by the news agency AFP, three people were killed in the strikes. The strikes targeting the airport, military facilities and power stations in rebel areas follow rising hostilities between Israel and the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, part of Iran's "axis of resistance" alliance against Israel. Also read | Houthis ‘uncover’ Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen The other targets included facilities at Hodeida, Salif and Ras Kanatib ports. In a statement, the Israeli military said that these locations were being used by the Houthi rebels to smuggle Iranian weapons into the region and for the entry of senior Iranian officials. WHO chief was at Sanaa airport during strike World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that he was at the Sanaa International Airport when it was hit by the Israeli strike. Tedros said that "one of our plane's crew members was injured." The WHO chief was in Yemen to seek the release of detained UN staff and assess the humanitarian situation in the war-torn country. Tedros said that his team were about to board their flight when the airport came under aerial bombardment. Meanwhile, in a statement, Houthi rebels said that two people were killed and 11 others were injured during the strike at the airport. 'Israeli strikes would continue until job is done' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel's strikes would continue until the job was done. "We are determined to cut this branch of terrorism from the Iranian axis of evil," Prime Minister Netanyahu said in a video statement. Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' Since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, Houthis have fired drones and missiles towards Israel in what they describe as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. More than a year of Houthi attacks have disrupted international shipping routes, forcing firms to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys that have in turn stoked fears over global inflation. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Israel launches multiple strikes in Yemen, three killed

Washington, USA 
<meta charset="utf-8"/>Two US Navy pilots were shot down on Sunday (Dec 22) in a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea, according to the US military. Both the pilots ejected and survived, with one sustaining minor injuries. In this apparent incident, US forces targeted Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have been the biggest danger to American troops in the region for over a year.
The US Central Command issued a statement confirming a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea.
"The guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, which is part of the USS Harry S Truman Carrier Strike Group, mistakenly fired on and hit the F/A-18, which was flying off the USS Harry S Truman," it said.
<h2 dir="ltr">Accidental fire </h2>
The pilots were flying a two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The USS Gettysburg, which is a guided missile cruiser, fortuitously fired the missile that brought the jet down.
“It’s unclear how such an error occurred,” the U.S. military’s Central Command stated. Generally in a strike group, vessels and aircraft communicate via radar and radio to refrain from mistakes like these.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-indian-navys-fighter-jet-mig-29k-crashes-in-goa-due-to-an-unknown-technical-malfunction-524742">Indian Navy's fighter jet MiG 29K crashes in Goa due to an unknown 'technical malfunction' </a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Red Sea tensions reach breaking point.</h2>
The Red Sea has become a hive of violence escalation, with the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels baiting the merchant and military vessels. The US forces were responding to missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthis before the shootdown happened.
The US airstrikes hit Houthi sites in Yemen on Saturday night, including a missile storage facility and a command and control centre.
Later, the Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for bringing down the US jet.
The Houthi attacks have sunk two ships, killed four sailors, and damaged others.
Watch | Nepal Plane Crash: 18 killed in Kathmandu's plane crash, pilot survives
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<h2 dir="ltr">Increasing Houthi aggression</h2>
Since the Israel-Hamas war began in October 2023, the Houthis have launched over 100 attacks on ships, stating that they target vessels linked to Israel, the US, and the UK. Although many of these ships have no direct ties to the conflict.
Despite US and European military patrols in the Red Sea, the region remains erratic.
The incident highlights the risk factor of operating in such tense conditions. Central Command noted that Houthi missile and drone fire often leaves sailors with only seconds to react, leading to risks of errors like this.
(With inputs from agencies)

The pilots were flying a two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The USS Gettysburg, which is a guided missile cruiser, fortuitously fired the missile that brought the jet down.



Washington, USA Two US Navy pilots were shot down on Sunday (Dec 22) in a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea, according to the US military. Both the pilots ejected and survived, with one sustaining minor injuries. In this apparent incident, US forces targeted Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have been the biggest danger to American troops in the region for over a year. The US Central Command issued a statement confirming a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea. "The guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, which is part of the USS Harry S Truman Carrier Strike Group, mistakenly fired on and hit the F/A-18, which was flying off the USS Harry S Truman," it said. Accidental fire The pilots were flying a two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The USS Gettysburg, which is a guided missile cruiser, fortuitously fired the missile that brought the jet down. “It’s unclear how such an error occurred,” the U.S. military’s Central Command stated. Generally in a strike group, vessels and aircraft communicate via radar and radio to refrain from mistakes like these. Also Read: Indian Navy's fighter jet MiG 29K crashes in Goa due to an unknown 'technical malfunction' Red Sea tensions reach breaking point. The Red Sea has become a hive of violence escalation, with the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels baiting the merchant and military vessels. The US forces were responding to missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthis before the shootdown happened. The US airstrikes hit Houthi sites in Yemen on Saturday night, including a missile storage facility and a command and control centre. Later, the Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for bringing down the US jet. The Houthi attacks have sunk two ships, killed four sailors, and damaged others. Watch | Nepal Plane Crash: 18 killed in Kathmandu's plane crash, pilot survives Increasing Houthi aggression Since the Israel-Hamas war began in October 2023, the Houthis have launched over 100 attacks on ships, stating that they target vessels linked to Israel, the US, and the UK. Although many of these ships have no direct ties to the conflict. Despite US and European military patrols in the Red Sea, the region remains erratic. The incident highlights the risk factor of operating in such tense conditions. Central Command noted that Houthi missile and drone fire often leaves sailors with only seconds to react, leading to risks of errors like this. (With inputs from agencies)

Two US Navy pilots shot down in 'friendly fire' incident over Red Sea

Yemen's Houthi rebels have launched a second strike on Tel Aviv within two days, escalating tensions in the region.

Yemen's Houthis Strike Tel Aviv For A Second Time In A Span Of Two Days

Yemen's Houthi rebels have launched a second strike on Tel Aviv within two days, escalating tensions in the region.



The United States has carried out airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen's capital, escalating tensions in the region.

US Strikes Houthi Targets in Yemen's Capital

Two US Navy pilots were shot down on Sunday (Dec 22) in a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea, according to the US military. Both the pilots ejected and survived, with one sustaining minor injuries.

Two US Navy pilots were shot down on Sunday (Dec 22) in a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea, according to the US military. Both the pilots ejected and survived, with one sustaining minor injuries. In this apparent incident, US forces targeted Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have been the biggest danger to American troops in the region for over a year. The US Central Command issued a statement confirming a "friendly fire" incident over the Red Sea. "The guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, which is part of the USS Harry S Truman Carrier Strike Group, mistakenly fired on and hit the F/A-18, which was flying off the USS Harry S Truman," it said. Accidental fire The pilots were flying a two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The USS Gettysburg, which is a guided missile cruiser, fortuitously fired the missile that brought the jet down. “It’s unclear how such an error occurred,” the U.S. military’s Central Command stated. Generally in a strike group, vessels and aircraft communicate via radar and radio to refrain from mistakes like these. Also Read: Indian Navy's fighter jet MiG 29K crashes in Goa due to an unknown 'technical malfunction' Red Sea tensions reach breaking point. The Red Sea has become a hive of violence escalation, with the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels baiting the merchant and military vessels. The US forces were responding to missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthis before the shootdown happened. The US airstrikes hit Houthi sites in Yemen on Saturday night, including a missile storage facility and a command and control centre. Later, the Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for bringing down the US jet. The Houthi attacks have sunk two ships, killed four sailors, and damaged others. Watch | Nepal Plane Crash: 18 killed in Kathmandu's plane crash, pilot survives Increasing Houthi aggression Since the Israel-Hamas war began in October 2023, the Houthis have launched over 100 attacks on ships, stating that they target vessels linked to Israel, the US, and the UK. Although many of these ships have no direct ties to the conflict. Despite US and European military patrols in the Red Sea, the region remains erratic. The incident highlights the risk factor of operating in such tense conditions. Central Command noted that Houthi missile and drone fire often leaves sailors with only seconds to react, leading to risks of errors like this. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel’s military said a missile launched from Yemen has hit the Tel Aviv area after air defence systems were unable to intercept the incoming projectile.

Medics in Gaza said Israeli air attacks killed at least 25 Palestinians on Friday after Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 77 people killed in Israeli attacks across the enclave over the previous 24 hours.



Houthis Hit Tel Aviv: Is Iron Dome Losing Missile Detection Ability?

Israel's Iron Dome Fails To Intercept Houthis' Missile Strike

Yemen's Houthis Launch Ballistic Missile On Israel's Tel Aviv |

Israel’s military said a missile launched from Yemen has hit the Tel Aviv area after air defence systems were unable to intercept the incoming projectile.

Medics in Gaza said Israeli air attacks killed at least 25 Palestinians on Friday after Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 77 people killed in Israeli attacks across the enclave over the previous 24 hours.

Houthis Target Tel Aviv With Ballistic Missile 'Type Palestine 2'

Israel’s military said a missile launched from Yemen has hit the Tel Aviv area after air defence systems were unable to intercept the incoming projectile. Medics in Gaza said Israeli air attacks killed at least 25 Palestinians on Friday after Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 77 people killed in Israeli attacks across the enclave over the previous 24 hours.

BREAKING: Houthis Launch Missile Attack On Tel Aviv, 16 Injured

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