What it is about:

Iran has reportedly armed Yemen’s Houthi fighters with its sea-launched ballistic missile, Ghadr, intensifying regional tensions. The semi-official Tasnim news agency, linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, broke the story on Wednesday.

Why it matters:

The new missile capabilities pose a significant threat to regional stability and security, particularly for Israel and its allies. This move highlights Iran’s ongoing efforts to bolster proxy forces and challenge U.S. and Israeli interests in the region.

Wider context:

Despite Iran’s longstanding support for the Houthis, it has traditionally denied providing them with advanced weaponry. The availability of Ghadr, a formidable ballistic missile, demonstrates an escalation in the military capabilities of Iranian-backed groups.

Ongoing conflict:

The Houthis have been using ballistic missiles and drones to target strategic locations, including the southern Israeli city of Eilat. These aggressive actions are purportedly in support of Palestinians amidst the conflict between Israel and Hamas, disrupting vital shipping lanes in the Red Sea.

Recent developments:

The U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence names Iran as the region’s leading possessor of ballistic missiles. Iran’s latest wave of aggressive armament delivery emphasizes its pioneering status in drone production and unfaltering influence over hostile entities in the Middle East.

A response to intensification:

Last month, Iran launched a significant projectile attack on Israel, which included over 300 projectiles—among them 170 drones, 30 cruise missiles, and 120 ballistic missiles. This unprecedented move underscores the elevated level of threat posed by Iranian military advancements.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.