The conflict between Israel and the Houthis has intensified dramatically after the rebels’ first confirmed use of a cluster bomb warhead was met with furious Israeli retaliation. A series of airstrikes on Sanaa left at least six dead and dozens wounded, marking a new level of violence.
The Israeli military’s discovery that a recent ballistic missile attack involved a cluster bomb was a game-changer, prompting a severe and immediate response. The use of such indiscriminate weaponry was seen by Israel as a red line that required a punishing counter-attack.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that the “Houthi terrorist regime” would learn its lesson the hard way, paying a “very heavy price” for its escalatory move. The Israeli Air Force then proceeded to hit strategic targets across the Yemeni capital, including the presidential palace compound.
This cycle of escalation—a more dangerous weapon from the Houthis followed by a more destructive response from Israel—threatens to spiral out of control. The conflict has now moved into uncharted territory, with both sides demonstrating a willingness to up the ante.