Ceasefire Deal Between Yemen’s Houthis and the U.S. Excludes Operations Against Israel

In a significant development, Mohammed Abdulsalam, the chief negotiator for Yemen’s Houthi movement, announced that the newly brokered ceasefire deal with the United States, mediated by Oman, does not include any military operations against Israel. This statement comes as tensions escalate following recent air strikes by Israeli forces on Yemeni infrastructure, particularly Sanaa airport, which have allegedly resulted in approximately $500 million worth of damages. The ceasefire agreement was revealed by U.S. President Donald Trump, who declared that American military operations against the Houthis would cease immediately, provided the group adheres to a commitment to refrain from attacking vessels in the Red Sea. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi emphasized that the agreement aims to ensure freedom of navigation and the unimpeded flow of international commercial shipping. The backdrop of this ceasefire is marked by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas that reignited in October 2023, leading to the Houthis expressing their solidarity with the Palestinian cause by targeting Israel from Yemen. Despite the announcement of the ceasefire, Abdulsalam warned that any resumption of U.S. military action could provoke a retaliatory response from the Houthis. This ongoing back-and-forth exposes underlying tensions and the fragility of the ceasefire agreement. Moreover, the rhetoric from both the Houthis and U.S. officials reflects a complex geopolitical landscape where allegiances and retaliations easily shift. The Houthis’ leadership has indicated that their attacks on Israel will persist, notwithstanding the ceasefire, suggesting that any ceasefire in Yemen may merely be tactical rather than a sincere attempt at lasting peace. The recent ballistic missile strike on Ben Gurion International Airport, although causing injuries and disrupted operations, showcases the Houthis' ongoing military capabilities, further complicating the region's security dynamics. This situation underscores the need for careful monitoring of the ceasefire's implementation and wider regional implications, particularly in relation to maritime security in the Red Sea and broader U.S.-Middle East relations. The outcome of these developments will likely be critical not only for Yemen but also for Israel and its ongoing conflict with various factions in the region, including the Houthis who have positioned themselves in opposition to Israeli interests and U.S. actions in the area.