Yemen Officially Joins War, Houthis Attack Israel as US Prepares Ground Operation
The Middle East conflict is heating up after the Houthi group in Yemen officially joined Iran’s war by launching direct attacks on Israel. This move marks a new escalation that expands the scope of the conflict in the region.
According to Reuters, the Iran-allied Houthi group on Saturday (28/3/2026) launched its first attack on Israel since the war broke out. The attacks have continued, with Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree stating that they have carried out a second attack and “there will be more attacks to come”.
The Houthis’ involvement opens a new front in the conflict while increasing risks to global shipping lanes, particularly in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial point leading to the Suez Canal.
At the same time, the United States is increasing its military presence in the region. Washington has sent thousands of marines, with the first wave arriving via amphibious assault ships.
A Washington Post report also indicates that the Pentagon is preparing for possible ground operations over several weeks in Iran, which could involve special forces up to conventional infantry. However, the final decision still depends on approval from President Donald Trump.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Washington could actually achieve its objectives without a ground operation, but the troop deployment is to give Trump maximum flexibility in determining strategy.
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to widen. Israel is reported to have attacked weapons production facilities in Tehran, as well as targets in Lebanon that killed journalists and soldiers. Further attacks even struck rescue teams arriving to aid the victims.
Iran retaliated with attacks on Israel and several Gulf regions. Drone attacks were also reported in Iraq, including near the residence of an important Kurdish figure.
The war, which began on 28 February with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has now killed thousands and shaken the global economy due to major disruptions in energy supplies.
These disruptions are primarily triggered by interference in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies. The threat has now increased with the potential for disruptions in Bab el-Mandeb if the Houthis expand their attacks.
Amid the escalation, diplomatic efforts are beginning. Pakistan is scheduled to host a meeting with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt to ease regional tensions.
However, the situation is still far from calming. Iran has emphasised that it will retaliate harshly if its infrastructure or economic centres are targeted.