Yemeni Houthi rebels report the passing of their prime minister due to an Israeli air attack

In the heart of Yemen, tensions have escalated following the death of Ahmed al-Rahawi, the first minister appointed by the Houthis, in an Israeli airstrike last Thursday in Sanaa. His successor, Mohamed Ahmed Miftah, was appointed by Mahdi al Mashat, the 'de facto' Yemeni president installed by the Houthis, in a presidential decree.

Mashat, in his decree, emphasized that the government and institutions are still capable of fulfilling their functions amidst the ongoing crisis. However, his words were met with a stark reminder as the Houthis reaffirmed their intention to continue attacks against Israel, the US, and Britain.

The Houthis, who control Sanaa and other areas of the north and west of Yemen since 2015, have been involved in several attacks against the strategic assets of these nations. These attacks, according to the Houthis, are in response to the interventions of these countries in Yemen and the wider region.

In a recent development, the Houthi leader called on all civilians to avoid any dealings with goods that belong to Israel. He also warned companies operating in Israel to leave before it is too late. Mashat warned Israel that "its revenge does not sleep" and promised "dark days" for the country.

The Houthi Minister of Defense, General Mohamed Nasser al Atifi, released an official statement on Saturday, vowing readiness to confront the "Zionist enemy supported by the United States." The Houthi forces, according to General al Atifi, are the "missiles of [their] leader's army."

The escalation in hostilities was further fuelled by Iran's confirmation of delivering weapons to the Houthi rebels in Yemen. This revelation came just days after the Houthis' involvement in attacks alongside the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) and other Palestinian factions on October 7.

The attacks have resulted in casualties among the Yemeni government officials. Several ministers were killed in the airstrike, but their identities were not disclosed. Other ministers were left with moderate to serious injuries and are receiving medical attention.

Despite joining a ceasefire announced by the United States in May, the Houthis have shown no signs of backing down. Oman has confirmed a ceasefire between the US and the Houthis, but it remains to be seen how long this truce will last.

As the situation in Yemen continues to unfold, the international community watches with bated breath, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this complex and long-lasting conflict.

Yemeni Houthi rebels report the passing of their prime minister due to an Israeli air attack