Missile Interception Highlights Middle East Tensions

The Israeli military intercepted two missiles from Yemen, as Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, continue to defend Hamas with attacks on Israel. The U.S. has been targeting Houthi areas since March 15, holding Iran accountable. The Houthis are connected to anti-Israel alliances like Hamas and Hezbollah.

The Israeli military reported on Thursday an interception of two missiles launched from Yemen before they could penetrate Israeli territory. The missile alarm was triggered in several locations, including Jerusalem.

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been targeting Israel with missiles and drones as a show of support for Hamas fighters. Since March 15, the United States has been conducting strikes on Houthi positions, with President Donald Trump promising to hold Iran accountable for assaults by the group.

The Houthis have taken control over Yemen's most populous regions, enduring nearly ten years of Saudi-led bombings. They are part of Iran's "Axis of Resistance," an anti-Israel and anti-Western militia network, including Hamas and Lebanon's Hezbollah, the latter of which faced a significant setback by Israeli efforts last year.

(With inputs from agencies.)