Israeli airstrikes target Yemen’s Houthi rebel capital of Sanaa
Israeli airstrikes targeted Sanaa, Yemen’s Houthi-controlled capital, and the Red Sea port city of Hodeida early Thursday, resulting in fires at energy facilities and infrastructure. The Israeli military stated that the targets hit were being used by the Houthi forces for military purposes and to smuggle Iranian weapons into the region. The strikes were aimed at degrading the Houthi terrorist regime and preventing them from utilizing these targets for military and terrorist activities.
According to IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari, the Israeli forces conducted the airstrikes in response to the firing of Houthi missiles that were intercepted before reaching Israeli territory. Rocket and missile sirens were activated due to the possibility of falling debris from the interception. Sirens were heard near Tel Aviv and surrounding areas, accompanied by a loud explosion overhead. While the Houthis did not immediately claim responsibility for the missile attack, they mentioned that a statement would be issued shortly, following their usual pattern.
The Houthis have been carrying out attacks on Israel and shipping in support of the Palestinians amid Israel’s ongoing conflict with the Gaza Strip. The violence in Gaza has resulted in over 45,000 casualties, as reported by the Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry. The terrorist group has targeted more than 100 merchant vessels since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023.
Houthi-controlled media outlets have not provided any information regarding the extent of damage or casualties resulting from Thursday’s airstrikes. The strikes in Yemen have been a part of Israel’s efforts to counter Houthi aggression and prevent the smuggling of weapons into the region. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in military confrontations.
The international community has been closely monitoring the situation in Yemen, with concerns about the escalating violence and its impact on the region’s stability. The airstrikes in Sanaa and Hodeida highlight the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Houthi rebels, further complicating the already volatile situation in the Middle East.
As the conflict continues to unfold, it is essential for all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and work towards a peaceful resolution. The use of military force and airstrikes only exacerbates the suffering of innocent civilians and prolongs the cycle of violence. It is crucial for all sides to engage in constructive dialogue and find a sustainable solution to the conflict in Yemen and the broader Middle East region.
