In a concerning development, Yemen’s Houthi leader Abdel-Malek al-Houthi has issued a warning that his group would respond with military options, including firing drones and missiles, if the United States directly intervenes in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Al-Houthi emphasised that there are “red lines” when it comes to Gaza and expressed readiness to coordinate with other groups. Simultaneously, Iraqi politician Hadi al-Amiri has threatened to target US interests if Washington intervenes to support Israel in its war on Gaza.

During a recent gathering in Baghdad, al-Amiri stated, “If the Americans intervened openly in this conflict…we will consider all American targets legitimate…and we will not hesitate to target them.” These remarks from al-Amiri, who leads the Badr Organisation, a significant part of Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which includes several Iran-backed groups, underscore the escalating tensions in the region.

The US’s announcement on Sunday that it would provide additional munitions to Israel and move a carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean has only added to the rising tensions. The move aims to show support for Israel, which has been facing increased attacks from Hamas. The US, a long-standing ally of Israel, provides approximately $3 billion in annual military aid to the country.

In response to the developments, the White House has stated that US President Joe Biden will hold discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to assess the situation and discuss support for Israel. Hours after Hamas launched an attack on Israeli territory, President Biden assured Israel of “rock-solid and unwavering” support, highlighting the close ties between the two nations.

To demonstrate their support, the US has ordered the movement of military ships and aircraft closer to Israel. However, the situation remains highly delicate, with the potential for further escalations and risks to regional stability and civilian lives.