Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a risky bet, ordering the assassination of the Houthi prime minister in a move that could either quell or inflame the regional conflict. Netanyahu called the strike a “fatal blow,” but its ultimate consequences are uncertain.
The Israeli government has framed the attack as a necessary response to the Houthis’ missile attacks and maritime piracy, which the group says is in solidarity with Gaza. Netanyahu has promised that more such operations will follow.
The raid was a stunning display of long-range strike capability, but it was also a partial failure. The escape of the Houthi military chief means the group’s capacity for revenge remains high, potentially leading to a dangerous escalation.
The Houthis’ swift vow of retaliation suggests the conflict is more likely to be inflamed. Analyst Yoel Guzansky noted that while the strike creates disruption, it fails to address the core “motivation” of the Houthis, making it a high-risk, uncertain-reward strategy.