Airstrikes Reported in Yemen Targeting Houthi-Controlled Sites

Airstrikes were reported in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, and the port city of Hudaydah, according to witnesses and Houthi officials. The strikes reportedly targeted Sanaa’s main international airport, a military base, and a power station in Hudaydah, as reported by AFP.

Israel has claimed responsibility for the attacks, stating that its air force targeted Houthi “military infrastructure.” Initial reports did not confirm casualty figures.

Israeli Military Statement

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a statement confirming the strikes, saying they were based on intelligence and aimed at Houthi military assets. “Israeli fighter jets conducted precision strikes on military targets belonging to the Houthi terrorist regime on the western coast and inland Yemen,” the IDF stated.

The targeted sites reportedly included military facilities at Sanaa International Airport and power stations in Hezyaz and Ras Kanatib, which were allegedly used for Houthi military operations.

Escalation of Hostilities

The strikes come after recent warnings from Israel about a significant response to the Houthis. The group has launched missiles and drones targeting Israeli cities, including a missile strike last week that injured over a dozen people.

Israel’s Defense Minister recently emphasized the country’s readiness for a decisive response, stating that Israel would “strike hard” against the Houthis and target their leadership.

Background on the Houthis

The Houthi movement, backed by Iran, has controlled large parts of western Yemen, including Sanaa, since 2015 after ousting the internationally recognized government. The group has been involved in escalating tensions with Israel since the early stages of the Gaza conflict, which began in October 2023.

Israel has conducted intermittent strikes on Houthi targets in response to attacks, signaling a growing confrontation between the two parties.