The Israeli military has executed air strikes on Houthi-held areas, including strategic ports and a hijacked cargo ship, in response to ongoing threats against Israel. The Houthis assert they've defended against the attack and initiated retaliatory missile strikes towards Israel, intensifying the conflict amidst the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war.
Israel Launches Airstrikes on Houthi-Controlled Targets in Yemen
Israel Launches Airstrikes on Houthi-Controlled Targets in Yemen
In retaliation for missile and drone assaults, Israel strikes Houthi ports and cargo vessels in Yemen, escalating regional tensions.
The Israeli military stated it has undertaken a series of air strikes against Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen, targeting the Red Sea ports of Hudaydah, Ras Issa, and al-Salif, as well as the cargo ship Galaxy Leader, which was previously hijacked by the Houthi rebels. This operation comes in defense against a barrage of attacks from the Iran-aligned group, including drones and missiles aimed at Israeli territory.
Israeli military sources emphasized that the Galaxy Leader was allegedly utilized by the Houthis to monitor maritime activities, suggesting a possible coordination in military operations against Israel. In response to the air strikes, the Houthi military spokesperson claimed that their defense systems successfully repelled the Israeli attacks, and emphasized that there were no casualties reported.
As tensions escalated, the Israeli military reported that the Houthis retaliated by launching two missiles from Yemen towards Israel, prompting air raid sirens in parts of occupied territories. The military also mentioned a review of their missile interception strategies due to the new threats.
Houthi-affiliated media reported collateral damage in their territory without providing details on casualties, further indicating the rising hazards of the conflict. The Israeli military justified its air operations with claims that approximately twenty fighter jets were dispatched due to repeated aggressions from the Houthi forces, which were alleged to be utilizing the targeted ports for weapon transfers from Iran.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz asserted that the Houthis would incur heavy costs for their actions, reinforcing a tough stance against threats towards Israel. The military's statements imply a grim correlation between Yemen's strife and the fate of Tehran, warning any entity that seeks to challenge Israel.
In a statement following the air strikes, Houthi spokesman Yahya Sarea communicated their readiness for an extended confrontation with Israel, claiming successful military operations against Israeli targets in retaliation to perceived aggression. They also cited an increased resolve to support the Palestinian cause amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
The Houthis have maintained substantial control in Northwestern Yemen since 2014, affecting regional stability amid a civil war backdrop. Amid this context, missile attacks towards Israel are viewed by the Houthis as acts of solidarity with Palestinians, despite prior ceasefire agreements mediated by the U.S.
Overall, the situation continues to evolve with significant implications for regional security, as Israel's strikes and Houthi defenses shape the trajectory of this multi-faceted conflict. Recently, the Houthi forces have reportedly targeted the Liberian-flagged bulk carrier Magic Seas, indicating the expanded reach of their military efforts in response to the tensions with Israel. The conflict remains a critical focal point in the ongoing humanitarian crisis that Yemen faces.
