Early on Tuesday morning, two navy missile boats, including a Saar 6, launched two long-range precision missiles from hundreds of kilometers away at Houthi targets. These targets included platforms within the port used for ships to anchor.
The IDF emphasized that the sea-to-land missiles would provide a different kind of deterrence compared to air bombs, due to their explosive power. This move is part of a broader strategy to discourage foreign ships from using or approaching the port.
Naval vessels have the advantage of being able to stay in the area and strike repeatedly, unlike aircraft that must return immediately after a strike to refuel. The navy's ability to remain at sea for extended periods also allows for more precise timing of strikes.
Unlike airstrikes, which are planned in advance with limited real-time intelligence, naval operations can adapt to the situation on the ground at the moment of the strike. The IDF issued warnings about potential future naval operations against the Houthis, without specifying a timeline.
While the IDF did not mention any plans to use naval forces against Iran, the focus remains on targeting Houthi-controlled ports to disrupt their operations.
Source: The Jerusalem Post