The Iran-aligned Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for shooting down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone over Yemen's Saada province, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. This incident represents the eighth MQ-9 downed since October of the previous year, amid ongoing attacks on U.S. military bases in the region. The Houthis' actions come in the wake of a series of retaliatory airstrikes by Israel against the group, following the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, which the Houthis have condemned. Local sources have reported the drone's downing, with photos circulating on social media, although U.S. authorities have yet to confirm the incident. The Houthis have indicated their intention to enter a phase of war against Israel, further complicating the already volatile situation in Yemen and the broader Middle East. The drone, valued at approximately $32 million, was part of the U.S. military's advanced surveillance and strike capabilities.