Israel's defense minister has said the country would "not allow the continuation" of shooting from Yemen's Houthi rebels, hours after Israel launched heavy airstrikes on rebel sites.

"I suggest the leaders of the Houthi organization to see, to understand and remember, whoever raises a hand against the state of Israel, his hand will be cut off. Whoever harms us will be harmed sevenfold," said Israel Katz, the defense minister.