Middle East: Hebrew media continue to examine Israel’s campaign against Yemen, with growing acknowledgment that its military and security bets have collapsed. Analysts now stress that the conflict cannot be resolved by military means alone, but requires a broader strategic reassessment.

The Failure of the 'Knockout Blow'

Israeli experts concede that the idea of delivering a “knockout blow” to Yemen is an illusion. They point to the latest military operation—carried out with 15 warplanes—that failed to achieve its objectives or deter Yemeni forces. Repeated failures have forced Israeli circles to admit that Yemen cannot be subdued militarily, especially as its operations remain closely tied to the war in Gaza.

Calls for Regional Alliances

In light of this reality, Israeli analysts argue that success requires enlisting regional partners to shift the balance of power. Particular emphasis is placed on Saudi Arabia, described as a potential “launchpad toward Yemen.” Observers believe any future Israeli-Saudi military cooperation could play a role in countering Yemen.

Intelligence Crisis and Advancing Yemeni Capabilities

According to reports, The Israeli enemy also faces a chronic intelligence problem, lacking “high-value targets” in Yemen. Past assassination attempts against Yemeni leaders have failed, complicating efforts further. This intelligence gap is compounded by Yemen’s rapid advances in missile technology. Analysts cited the recent deployment of a missile with a “splitting warhead,” calling it a dangerous escalation and warning it may signal the arrival of non-conventional weaponry.

Strategic Recommendations

Facing these challenges, Israeli experts propose several options: abandoning limited strikes in favor of broader operations, integrating objectives with allied states, and preparing for a protracted confrontation. Analysts now describe the conflict as a “long, complex battle” that exposes not only vulnerabilities in Israel’s defense systems but also the erosion of its deterrence capability.

Yemeni Support Becomes Strategic Challenge

From the Israeli perspective, Yemen’s military support for Gaza has evolved from a temporary front into a full-fledged strategic challenge. Failed defenses, collapsing deterrence, and advancing Yemeni capabilities are seen as factors pushing Israel into a drawn-out conflict with no quick or easy solution.

Translated by Almasirah English website