Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning to the Houthi militants in Yemen on December 22, 2024, promising decisive action following a missile strike that targeted an area near Tel Aviv, injuring 14 people. The attack marked a significant escalation, as interception attempts by Israeli defense forces were unsuccessful.

In a video statement, Netanyahu drew a parallel between the Houthis and Hezbollah, stating, "Just as we acted forcefully against the terrorist arms of the Iranian axis, we will take action against the Houthis, and the outcome will be the same." He emphasized that Israel is not acting alone, noting that the United States and other nations also view the Houthis as a threat to international shipping and the global order.

"We will act with strength, determination, and skill," he asserted, adding that even if it takes time, the results will mirror those achieved against other terrorist groups.

Netanyahu urged Israeli citizens to remain patient and maintain the strong stance they have shown thus far. "I ask you to do that, and we will handle the rest," he said, stressing the importance of following instructions from the Home Front Command.

The warning comes in the wake of ongoing Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which the group claims are in support of Palestinians in Gaza, amid the devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas that escalated after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on October 7, 2023.