Yemen’s Houthis fired surface-to-air missiles at a U.S. fighter jet and MQ-9 Reaper drone but missed, suggesting improved targeting capabilities. The Iran-backed group has launched over 100 attacks on ships since November 2023, disrupting global trade. Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi warned of further strikes if Palestinians were forcibly removed from Gaza. Israel, the U.S., and Britain have retaliated with airstrikes. While the Houthis paused attacks on Israel after a ceasefire, they continue targeting vessels. Iran has armed the group with advanced missiles despite denials. The Red Sea shipping corridor remains under threat as tensions persist.
Thousands of Indians live and work in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Indian expats account for over 30 percent of the total population of the UAE and are often work at strategic sites such as refineries, which, as we have seen in the past, are the usual targets of Houthi attacks.