Intelligence sources claim Iran-backed group is testing longer-range and more accurate weapons amid reduced hostilities
The Houthis are using the current ceasefire involving Israel, the United States, and Iran to strengthen their missile programme, according to two Western intelligence sources cited by The Jerusalem Post.
The sources said the Iran-backed group has recently carried out a series of missile tests designed to improve both the range and precision of its weapons. They claimed the effort aims to enhance the group’s future strike capabilities while regional hostilities remain relatively subdued.
Although the Houthis are considered one of Iran’s key regional allies, they have launched comparatively few attacks against Israel since the beginning of Operation Rising Lion, Israel’s military campaign targeting Iranian assets.
Limited attacks continue despite temporary lull
According to the report, the Houthis have launched approximately six missiles and five drones toward Israeli territory since resuming attacks on March 28. Earlier, the group announced it had suspended military operations following the Gaza ceasefire agreement reached in October 2025.
Despite the reduced pace of attacks, intelligence officials believe the group is using the current pause to upgrade its military capabilities rather than scale back its operations.
The reported missile testing comes as regional powers continue diplomatic efforts aimed at preserving the fragile ceasefire while monitoring the activities of armed groups aligned with Iran.
Leadership renews threats over Gaza and Red Sea
Meanwhile, Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi warned last week that the group would intervene militarily if Israel launched a new offensive in the Gaza Strip. He also said the Houthis remained in close coordination with allied groups across the region.
Additionally, al-Houthi warned against what he described as Israeli efforts to expand its presence around Somaliland, the Gulf of Aden, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and the Red Sea.
Israel has not conducted strikes in Yemen since September 2025. However, Defence Minister Israel Katz recently warned that Israel’s campaign against the Houthis remained active, stating that the group’s leadership would face consequences if attacks against Israel continued.
