B2 bombers need to visit Yemen: US envoy threatens to bomb Yemen after Houthi missile strike

A missile launched from Yemen has sparked a sharp warning from the United States. On Monday, Israel’s air defences intercepted a projectile fired by the Houthi rebels. Hours later, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee made his threat clear. Posting on X, Huckabee said, “We thought we were done with missiles coming to Israel, but Houthis just lit one up over us in Israel. Fortunately, Israel's incredible interception system means we go to the shelter & wait until all clear.” He added bluntly, “Maybe those B2 bombers need to visit Yemen!”

The statement came as the Houthis openly confirmed they launched the attack. It marks the first missile launch by the Houthis since Israel and Iran agreed a ceasefire on 24 June to end a 12-day conflict.

Why the B-2 Bomber is so important

The B-2 Spirit stealth bomber sits at the heart of US strategic power. This aircraft can slip past modern air defences undetected. With a range of more than 6,000 nautical miles (over 11,000 km) without refuelling, it can strike far-flung targets from the US mainland.

When topped up mid-air, it can hit almost any location worldwide. In the past, the B-2 has flown missions from Missouri to Afghanistan, Libya, and most recently Iran. Its bomb bays can hold more than 40,000 pounds (18,144 kg) of weapons. That includes two Massive Ordnance Penetrators — 30,000-pound bombs built to smash bunkers deep underground.

Huckabee’s pointed remark about Yemen came just weeks after the US used B-2s to hit Iran’s nuclear sites. Those raids were part of Washington’s support for Israel’s campaign against Iran’s underground nuclear and missile network.

Houthis vow more attacks

On the other side, the Houthis say they have reasons for their renewed fire. The group’s military spokesperson Yehya Sarea said on television that their missile operation targeted Israel’s central city of Jaffa. “Triumphing for the oppressed Palestinian and Iranian peoples...This operation was coordinated with the operations carried out by the Iranian army against the criminal Israeli enemy,” Sarea declared.

The Houthis have regularly fired missiles and drones at Israel since their ally Hamas attacked Israel in October 2023. During a two-month Gaza ceasefire, they paused strikes. But once the truce broke down in March, the rockets returned.

Israel responds with retaliation

Israel has not sat idle. After each missile launch, Israeli jets have struck back. Ports under Houthi control and Sanaa’s airport — deep inside rebel territory — have faced repeated attacks.

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz also delivered a harsh warning after the latest incident. He linked the Houthis to Tehran and promised more blows if missile launches continue. “The fate of Yemen is the same as that of Tehran…After striking the head of the snake in Tehran, we will also strike the Houthis in Yemen. Whoever raises a hand against Israel — that hand will be cut off,” Katz said in a statement.

This latest round of threats and counter-threats shows the Gaza war’s ripple effect across the region is far from over. If the US brings its B-2 bombers into Yemen’s skies, the stakes could rise sharply. For now, residents in Israel’s cities know the drill well. Sirens wail. People rush for shelter. And leaders weigh what to strike next.