A high-ranking former Israeli military commander has suggested that current operations against Yemen's Houthis are just the prelude to an inevitable confrontation with Iran, marking a significant escalation in regional military rhetoric.
Retired Brigadier General Effi Eitam, speaking to Israeli radio station 103FM, outlined what he sees as a clear path from current Yemen strikes to potential action against Iran. "What we're seeing now is basically a dress rehearsal," he said. "Both Israeli and American air forces are flexing their muscles, preparing for what might come next."
While emphasizing Israel's capability to act independently, Eitam acknowledged that sustained operations against Iran would require U.S. support. "Israel can strike alone - we've proven that. But for long-term effectiveness, American partnership is crucial," he explained.
Military Cooperation Growing
The former general pointed to increasing Israeli-American military coordination including joint offensive operations against Houthi targets, combined air defense operations, shared intelligence and capabilities training and coordinated maritime security efforts.
Hostage Deal Implications
Eitam also addressed the ongoing hostage crisis in Gaza, suggesting that securing the captives' release might actually free Israel's hand for broader regional action. "We can pay certain prices now for the hostages because our enemies who were supposed to exact heavy costs haven't materialized," he said.
His comments come as Israeli forces continue operations in Gaza while facing growing threats from multiple fronts, including Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping and Iranian proxy activities across the region.
