Israel Operation Long Arm: A Bold Strike Against Houthi Forces

In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Israel recently launched a targeted strike against Houthi forces in Yemen. This follows the first successful attack by the Houthis on Israel. Israel retaliated with Operation Long Arm, signifying its commitment to strike its enemies even at a distance.

Timeline

Houthi spokesperson said that they conducted a group drone attack on July 19th. The drone was called “Yaffa” by Houthi. It travelled over 2000 km over Red sea and possibly Egyptian airspace. The Houthis may have used civilian flight paths as a deception tactic.

The IDF reported that 4 drones launched, with 3 shot down and 1 reaching Tel Aviv. The drone killed one person and injured 10 others. The blast occurred just a few meters from a branch of the US Embassy.

And the IDF said in its preliminary investigation they found that the drone was registered in the radar but it was a human error that classified it as ‘Not a Threat’ that led to it being not shot down. They said IAF accepts full responsibility for the oversight.

Israel’s Operation Long Arm on Port Hudaydah (July 20): In retaliation for the Houthi rebel’s drone attack on July 19th, Israel carried out the farthest attack in recent history over 2000 km. The operation:

– 25 Fighter jets, Combination of F-15 and F-35.
– Possibly close monitoring of US drones and Fighter jets in the region.
– In a recent report, it was mentioned that the IAF may have already informed Saudi before the strike was to be carried out.
– IAF likely used Saudi Airspace to travel to Yemen.
– IDF informed that all their pilots have returned safely.

Israel Targets

This video shows the after effect of the missile strike on a fuel depot in the port.

It is likely this will burn for days. It will imprint a strong image onto Houthi’s of what will be the response of IDF in a likely future attack on Israel.

– Target was fuel depots of the Port, Power Station and Cranes.
– The operation was likely carried out in 8 waves.
– Fuel depot was likely targeted to let it burn for days as a show of force.
– Due to Power station being taken out, that region may face widespread power outages.
– Israel’s message from that attack was to show to its enemies that it will retaliate no matter the distance.
– And the Houthis have vowed retaliation, although the specifics of their response remain uncertain given their previous numerous attacks on Israel.

Israel & US and Its Allies Dilemma

Recent reports reflect Israel’s frustration with the US’s defensive stance regarding the Houthis and Hezbollah. The head of U.S. Central Command admitted that the predominantly defensive strategy has made Operation Prosperity Garden largely ineffective. This operation aims to protect merchant vessels from Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, but critics argue that it fails to address the aggressiveness of the Houthi forces. The current strategy uses a multinational naval task force to safeguard sea lanes, but many find this approach inadequate since the Houthis organise and equip themselves like a conventional military force, which requires a more aggressive and direct military response. (A report by Lawfaremedia and Aawsat)

Future Outlook

The escalation could cause both sides to engage in a series of retaliatory actions, potentially dragging other regional players into the conflict. It may also prompt international actors to increase involvement or mediation efforts to prevent further escalation. The strategic landscape in the Middle East will likely shift, affecting future conflicts and diplomatic relations. By targeting economic rather than purely military objectives, Israel may signal a new phase in its approach to regional security. The Houthis’ response will play a crucial role in determining the next steps in this volatile situation.