Israel’s defense minister has publicly acknowledged the nation’s involvement in the assassination of Hamas’ key leader last summer, while also issuing a warning regarding potential actions against the leadership of Yemen’s Houthi rebel faction. The statements made by Minister Israel Katz signify a rare admission of responsibility for the death of Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in an explosion in Iran last July. While there had been widespread assumptions concerning Israel’s involvement, this marks the first official confirmation from Israeli officials.
In his address on Monday, Katz asserted that the Houthis would face consequences akin to those that befell other members associated with an Iranian-led coalition in the region, including Haniyeh. He mentioned Israel’s history of eliminating other prominent figures from Hamas and Hezbollah, its role in ousting Bashar Assad from power in Syria, and claims of damaging Iran’s anti-aircraft networks. “We will attack the strategic assets of the Houthis and decisively target their leadership,” Katz stated.
Katz’s comments reference previous operations that resulted in the deaths of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders in locations such as Tehran, Gaza, and Lebanon. He further indicated that similar strikes could occur in regions like Hodeida and Sanaa, in response to the ongoing missile and drone assaults that the Iranian-affiliated Houthis have launched against Israel throughout the conflict, including a missile strike in Tel Aviv on Saturday that resulted in at least 16 injuries.
In addition to Israel’s military actions, U.S. Central Command confirmed it executed an airstrike in Syria that targeted two Islamic State militants. The Pentagon reported this strike occurred in Deir Ezzour Province and involved the destruction of a truck filled with weaponry and also claimed one additional operative was wounded during the incident.
Meanwhile, a U.N. investigation body expressed optimism regarding collaboration with newly established authorities in Syria, following the fall of Assad’s regime. The U.N. team emphasized its readiness to begin operations to gather evidence on war crimes and other serious offenses. Observers reported some receptiveness among officials following recent uprisings in the country.
In central Gaza, the United Nations’ food assistance agency reported the unfortunate looting of 23 trucks from a humanitarian convoy despite prior Israeli assurances regarding safety protocols. An airstrike in the area reportedly impeded the convoy, with only a portion successfully reaching a warehouse without issues.
Furthermore, tensions are rising as an Israeli airstrike claimed the lives of four police officers guarding an aid truck, resulting in reports of looting. Witnesses observed individuals departing the scene with bags of flour, some stained with blood. The situation in Gaza regarding aid delivery has been hampered by ongoing looting and a lack of security for delivery personnel.
Across the region, the Pentagon also confirmed the presence of over 2,500 U.S. troops in Iraq, a number that has steadily increased due to emerging threats. The situation in Iraq remains politically sensitive, with local pressure against the U.S. presence growing amid ongoing discussions about troop withdrawals and future missions against the Islamic State group.
In the wider context of Jordan and Lebanon, developments included a visit by a Qatari delegation to meet with a prominent insurgent leader in Damascus, promoting intentions for strategic cooperation. Meanwhile, in Jenin, ongoing clashes between Palestinian militants and security forces have left two members of the Palestinian Authority’s security team deceased, escalating tensions in the volatile region.
Palestinians residing in Jenin observed a general strike to protest the crackdown initiated by security forces, further complicating the already fragile situation. These developments highlight the broader conflict dynamics in a region marked by persistent violence, military engagement, and shifting alliances.
