Israel strikes Houthi ports in Yemen after ship attack in Red Sea

Israel engaged in a missile exchange with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen on Monday, targeting the group’s ports and other facilities. The conflict began when Israel responded to a suspected Houthi attack on a Liberian-flagged ship in the Red Sea. The ship was targeted with explosives and small arms fire, causing it to take on water and forcing the crew to abandon ship. The Houthis have not claimed responsibility for the attack. Israel’s military issued a warning before launching strikes on ports at Hodeida, Ras Isa, and Salif.

“These ports are used by the Houthi terrorist regime to transfer weapons from the Iranian regime, which are employed to carry out terrorist operations against the state of Israel and its allies,” the Israeli military stated.

The Houthis retaliated with missile fire, but Israel reported no casualties from the attack. The Israeli military also targeted the Galaxy Leader, a vessel seized by the Houthis in 2023, which was allegedly fitted with a radar system for tracking international vessels for terror operations.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned of further strikes if Houthi aggression continues in the Red Sea or elsewhere. “Anyone who raises a hand against Israel will have it cut off. The Houthis will continue to pay a heavy price for their actions,” Katz declared.

On the other hand, Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree affirmed the group’s readiness for a sustained confrontation and vowed to maintain their naval blockade.

U.S. Army Gen. Michael Kurilla emphasized to lawmakers that Iran’s support is the primary reason the Houthis remain a threat. The news of the conflict broke just hours before President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were scheduled to meet at the White House.

The two leaders were expected to discuss the future of Gaza, with Israel advocating for the complete removal of Hamas from the region. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Anders Hagstrom, a reporter with Fox News Digital covering national politics and major breaking news events, authored this article. For tips, contact Anders.Hagstrom@Fox.com or follow him on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.