Houthi forces make new strides in using advanced weapons

Houthi forces in Yemen have launched several surface-to-air missiles at US aircraft over the past week. Although they missed their targets, observers say the launches show the group’s progress in using advanced weapons and equipment.

Western media quoted anonymous US officials as saying the launch targeted a fighter jet and an MQ-9 Reaper drone, but did not specify whether the incident occurred in Yemen or over the Red Sea.

Sources stressed that Houthi forces continue to show significant progress in operating and using military equipment that requires high training and coaching.

In a televised speech on February 13, leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi warned that the force would continue to attack ships in the Red Sea with missiles and drones if the US and Israel sought to “push” Palestinians out of the Gaza Strip by force.

This statement was in response to US President Donald Trump's announcement after taking office that he would permanently expel Palestinians from Gaza and turn the strip into a resort. Trump's statement has angered the Arab community.

Houthi forces have carried out more than 100 attacks on ships off the coast of Yemen since November 2023 in a show of support for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip in their conflict with Israel.

The attacks have disrupted traffic through this vital waterway, forcing ships to choose alternative routes and accept higher costs.