With US Coordination, Israel Raises Alert Level to Counter Houthi Land and Sea Attacks

Estimates from Israeli security sources indicate that the threat posed by the Houthi militia in Yemen has recently escalated amid ongoing fighting, with Tel Aviv placing itself on high alert in anticipation of a possible surprise attack, according to the Hebrew website "Walla."

The threat emanating from Yemen occupies a prominent place in all Israeli situational assessments, based on intensive intelligence-gathering efforts.

Operational coordination
Moreover, operational and intelligence coordination between the Israeli army and the US Central Command aims to improve the early warning model regarding attempts to launch surprise attacks on Israel and minimize scenarios of surprise as much as possible.

This comes in light of the Houthis' efforts to enhance their capabilities to launch attacks from both sea and land.

According to the Hebrew site, as part of these preparations, the Israeli army is expected to establish a fire control center within the "Idom Division."

Land attacks
The site notes that over the past two years, the Houthis have released numerous videos documenting training for ground raids targeting Israel, including scenarios involving military sites and fortified dummy positions.

According to security officials, the Houthis have recently intensified warnings about carrying out land attacks against Israel as well.

The site conveyed assurances from security officials that the Houthi militia represents an unpredictable party, not only due to its combat tactics but also because of its stubborn extremist culture and ideology.

It clarified that Israel avoids taking risks and prepares to face potential surprises by adopting several measures, including: deploying reserve and intervention forces in the Eilat region; conducting exercises and equipping forces with necessary weapons; and enhancing coordination and linkage between ground, naval, and air forces - including reducing readiness times and conducting joint maneuvers with the Israeli Police and Border Police operating in the area.

Operational independence
The site indicates that furthermore, the security establishment does not rule out a series of cascading repercussions, where the Houthis escalate their attacks on Saudi Arabia; which may push the latter to escalate its response, potentially dragging the US army into launching a violent retaliation.

The Hebrew site explained that in such a scenario, the Houthis might attack American interests inside Israel; forcing the Israeli army in turn to respond.

One official said: "The Houthis have long ceased to be viewed merely as Iranian proxies; they demonstrate operational independence and an incomprehensible determination in confrontation."