(VOVWORLD) - Iran and allied groups on Saturday launched intensified attacks against Israel and Gulf countries hosting US bases. Notably, the Houthi movement in Yemen officially entered the conflict, launching missiles and drones toward Israel for the first time.
The Israel Defense Forces reported that Iran carried out seven ballistic missile strikes targeting Israeli territory that day. A strike on Saturday’s afternoon injured 11 people in the Jerusalem area and caused significant property damage, with some missiles penetrating Israel’s air defense systems.
In addition to Iranian strikes, Israel confirmed coordinated attacks by the Houthi movement and Hezbollah. The Houthis launched at least one ballistic missile, one cruise missile, and a drone, all of which were intercepted without causing damage.
This is the first direct involvement of Yemen’s largest armed group since the conflict began on February 28. Previously, the Houthis had stated they would only intervene if Iran lost momentum against the United States and Israel.