Israel recalls three European ambassadors for supporting Palestine

The escalating conflict in the Middle East has taken a new turn as the Houthi militants in Yemen have reportedly acquired weapons capable of reaching as far as the Mediterranean Sea. This revelation comes from a senior US defense official, who expressed concerns about the group’s ability to expand its attacks on shipping beyond its immediate borders.

The US government’s worries about the Houthi militants’ capabilities were discussed during a meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between defense officials from the US and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The official highlighted the advanced weaponry at the disposal of the Iran-backed group, including anti-ship ballistic missiles and drones, which have been used in recent attacks.

The Houthis recently announced their intention to extend their range to vessels in the eastern Mediterranean, a move seen as a show of solidarity with Hamas in the ongoing Gaza war. This has raised alarm among shipping and freight executives, who fear for the safety of their vessels in the region.

The Houthis’ ability to target ships in the Mediterranean is attributed to their military training and support from Iran, which provides crucial intelligence and radar assistance for such operations. The group’s threats have effectively closed off the southern Red Sea to most Western ships, forcing alternative routes that bypass the Suez Canal.

In a related development, the US has reportedly softened its stance on a potential Israeli military operation in Rafah, following efforts by Israel to minimize civilian casualties. The shift in the US position came after President Joe Biden warned of suspending the transfer of offensive weapons to Israel if a full-scale attack on the Gaza Strip border city proceeded.

Meetings between top US and Israeli officials revealed that Israel had taken US humanitarian concerns into account in its plans for Rafah. The departure of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from the city also helped alleviate concerns about the potential civilian toll of an assault.

While the US remains cautious about any major military operation in Rafah due to the dense urban environment and potential impact on the remaining population, Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted the significant exodus of people from the city. The US will continue to evaluate Israeli actions based on their adherence to humanitarian principles.

The latest developments in the Middle East underscore the complex dynamics at play in the region, with global attention focused on the conflict between Israel and Hamas, as well as the broader implications for peace and stability in the Middle East. The recognition of Palestinian statehood by European nations like Ireland, Norway, and Spain further complicates the situation, highlighting the deep-rooted divisions and challenges facing the region.