A missile launched during the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel struck the city of Taba in Egypt early this Friday morning, as reported by the Egyptian newspaper "Al Kara News." The missile struck a medical facility in Taba, resulting in injuries to at least six individuals, according to reports from Egypt. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed their awareness of this security incident occurring outside Israel's borders.

The origins of the missile launch remain unclear, as it fell approximately 220 kilometers from the Gaza Strip. There is now growing suspicion that the missile might have been launched by the Houthi rebels from Yemen, possibly targeting the city of Eilat. Egyptian authorities have indicated their intent to respond to this attack at a time and place of their choosing. Taba is situated within Egyptian territory, in the northern region of the Gulf of Eilat, near the Israeli border. Notably, just last week, a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip landed in an open area near Eilat, causing no damage.

 

Last week, the United States military reported intercepting missiles launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen aimed at Israel. It is worth mentioning that these rebels now control the capital, Sana'a, and its surrounding areas in Yemen. This development has raised concerns about the escalation of the conflict.

The Houthi rebels have their roots in the Zada province in northwestern Yemen and are considered a Shia-Zaidi organization, representing approximately 15% of the country's population. Their rise to prominence began in 1990 following the unification of North and South Yemen when they initiated attacks. By 2014, they successfully seized control of Sana'a, sparking the ongoing civil war in Yemen.

The origins of the civil war can be traced back to the Arab Spring of 2011, which led to the retirement of Yemen's long-standing ruler, Ali Abdullah Saleh, after three decades in power. Following Saleh's departure, Abd Rabbo Mansur Hadi assumed leadership, and efforts began to establish a new constitution and hold elections. However, the Houthis rejected these proposals.

In 2014, the Yemeni government decided to reduce fuel subsidies, a move that triggered protests and allowed the Houthis to take control of the capital. While Hadi's government maintains control over eastern Yemen, the conflict has persisted. It's important to note that the Houthis receive support from Shia Iran, while Saudi Arabia is considered their staunch opponent. The violence in Yemen has resulted in widespread suffering, with citizens enduring airstrikes, economic collapse, and extreme poverty, making daily life unbearable for many.

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