The Houthi rebel movement in Yemen has vowed revenge on Israel following the death of its self-proclaimed prime minister, Ahmed al-Rahawi, in an airstrike outside the capital, Sanaa.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed conducting the strike on Thursday, describing the target as a “military site,” but provided no further details. On Saturday, the Houthis acknowledged that Rahawi and several senior figures in the Iranian-backed group were among the casualties.

Rahawi, who assumed the role of prime minister in August 2024, was widely regarded as a symbolic leader rather than a central decision-maker. Analysts say real authority within the movement rests with Muhammad Ahmed Miftah, the deputy prime minister, who is now expected to formally take over Rahawi’s position.

According to Israeli media, intelligence reports indicated that ten Houthi ministers had gathered outside Sanaa to attend a speech by Abdul Malik al-Houthi, the group’s leader. The Israeli Air Force then launched a strike on the meeting, resulting in multiple deaths.

The Houthis, who have controlled much of northwestern Yemen since ousting the internationally recognized government in 2014, have long maintained close ties with Iran and have pledged solidarity with Hamas amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. Their vow of retaliation raises fears of broader regional escalation.