Israel uncovers Iranian-backed Houthi weapons program and invasion plot

Defense officials say the developments mark a sharp escalation in the Houthis’ ability to strike Israeli targets.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Israeli intelligence reveals the Houthis are using Iranian technology to upgrade drones and missiles while plotting an October 7–style invasion of Israel.

It is apparent that Iranian technology is behind the growing effectiveness of Houthi drones and long-range missiles, with local engineers in Yemen now producing advanced systems and hiding them in underground facilities.

Defense officials say the developments mark a sharp escalation in the Houthis’ ability to strike Israeli targets.

In recent months, intelligence assessments have tracked both the self-production of unmanned aerial vehicles and the manufacture of precision missiles based on Iranian technology.

The underground complexes are used for assembling and storing the weapons, protecting them from Israeli detection and preemptive strikes.

At the same time, the IDF is closely watching reports that the Houthis are studying Hamas’ October 7 invasion model.

According to intelligence, the Houthis have circulated what they call the “Al-Aqsa Flood” plan, designed to train thousands of fighters for mass infiltration raids.

Analysts believe the concept envisions a coordinated ground assault from the east — possibly through Jordan, Syria, or both — with the stated goal of reaching Jerusalem.

In parallel with these discoveries, Israel has stepped up military action in Yemen.

On Thursday, the IDF said dozens of Air Force aircraft struck seven Houthi targets in the Sanaa area, including the group’s General Staff Command Headquarters, compounds tied to its security and intelligence services, a military media hub, and weapons camps.

The raids were described as the largest yet, with more than 65 munitions dropped 2,200 kilometers from Israel.

The IDF said the strikes were a direct response to repeated Houthi attacks on Israeli territory.

Officials stressed that the Houthis operate under Iranian direction and funding, using both regional waters and advanced weaponry to target Israel and disrupt global shipping.