On June 15, 2025, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for launching multiple ballistic missiles, including “Palestine 2” hypersonic missiles, targeting “sensitive” sites in central Israel, specifically the Jaffa area. These attacks were explicitly coordinated with Iran’s “Operation True Promise III,” a retaliatory strike involving over 150 missiles and drones against Israel following Israel’s “Operation Rising Lion” on June 13, which hit over 100 Iranian strategic sites, including nuclear facilities. The Houthi statement, delivered by military spokesperson Yahya Saree, framed the attacks as support for Palestinians and Iranians, marking a significant escalation as it was the first time a Tehran-backed group publicly joined Iran’s direct conflict with Israel. Most Houthi missiles were intercepted by Israel’s defense systems, with no major casualties reported, though air raid sirens disrupted cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Russia’s response likely remained neutral, consistent with its Middle East balancing act. Moscow’s ties with Iran, including arms and energy cooperation, contrast with its security coordination with Israel, such as deconfliction in Syria. Russia would avoid condemning either side to maintain leverage, possibly issuing vague calls for restraint to preserve its mediator role. The EU, focused on trade talks with the US, would likely express concern over regional escalation due to its impact on energy markets and trade routes, as seen in von der Leyen’s efforts to stabilize global trade. The Beirut rooftop party video, showing civilians dancing amid missile flyovers, highlights the region’s proximity to the conflict, amplifying risks for global actors like Russia and the EU.