In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Israel launched multiple airstrikes targeting the Houthi movement in Yemen on Thursday. The strikes hit several locations, including the Sanaa International Airport, where at least six people were reported dead, according to Houthi media.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of the World Health Organization, revealed that he was about to board a plane at Sanaa Airport when the attacks occurred. “A crew member on the plane was injured,” he stated, highlighting the unexpected proximity of the strikes to international personnel.
The Israeli military confirmed the operation, stating that in addition to the airport, they targeted military infrastructures at the ports of Hodeidah, Salif, and Ras Kanatib along Yemen’s west coast. Strikes were also carried out on the Hezyaz and Ras Kanatib power stations, aiming to dismantle what Israel describes as the Houthis’ military capabilities.
Yemen’s Saba news agency reported a total of six fatalities—three at the airport and three in Hodeidah—with an additional 40 individuals wounded. The attacks have intensified fears of a broader conflict in the already volatile region.
In response to the airstrikes, the Houthi movement declared its readiness to retaliate. “We are prepared to meet escalation with escalation,” the group announced via the Houthi-run Al Masirah TV. The Houthis have previously fired drones and missiles towards Israel, expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
Shortly after the operation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a joint video statement pledging to dismantle the Houthis’ military power. Katz vowed to “hunt down all the Houthi leaders and strike them, just as we have done elsewhere. No one will escape Israel’s long arm. We will strike them to eliminate threats against Israel,” he asserted.
The developments mark a potential new front in regional hostilities, drawing international concern over the escalating confrontation between Israel and the Houthi movement.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
