“In Hours, We Strike”: Houthi Threats Escalate Following Launch of IDF's Gideon's Chariots

The Iran-backed Houthi militia in Yemen has heightened fears of intensified attacks on Israel, issuing a chilling threat in response to the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) ongoing ground operations in the Gaza Strip. Following the IDF's launch of Operation Gideon's Chariots in Gaza, Senior Houthi leader Nasr al-Din Amer declared, “In the coming hours, we will carry out military operations against Ben-Gurion Airport and other airports, due to the Zionist escalation in the Gaza Strip and the continued massacre against the Palestinian people.” This statement, reported by Reuters, signals a likely surge in ballistic missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli civilian and military infrastructure, following recent Houthi strikes on Ben-Gurion Airport that disrupted flights and forced millions into bomb shelters.

The Houthis’ threat comes amid heightened IDF activity in Gaza, which they claim justifies their escalation. The group’s intent to expand their campaign, backed by Iran’s logistical support, raises concerns about increased attack frequency, posing significant risks to densely populated areas like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. While the IDF’s Arrow and David’s Sling systems have intercepted most incoming missiles, a May 4 incident where a missile evaded interception highlighted vulnerabilities, as noted by military analyst Amir Bar Shalom: “You have to take this threat seriously.”

Although Israel’s Home Front Command has not altered its guidelines, heightened vigilance is critical. Citizens are urged to stay alert for early missile alerts and air raid sirens, immediately identifying the nearest bomb shelter and ensuring it is open, accessible, and has closed windows. Alert those nearby, particularly the elderly, and use the minutes before sirens to prepare. After an attack, remain in the shelter for 10 minutes to avoid falling debris or shrapnel from intercepted missiles. With the Houthis’ aggressive rhetoric and history of targeting civilian hubs, proactive preparation, knowing shelter locations and following alerts, could save lives as this threat looms.