Israeli airstrikes on Iran-backed Houthis hit Yemen’s capital
Israeli airstrikes targeted Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, in a series of attacks that rocked the city. The strikes came in response to the firing of a missile by Houthi rebels towards Israel, which the Israeli military claimed was the first cluster bomb launched by the rebels since 2023. The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, reported that multiple areas in Sanaa were hit, resulting in at least two deaths and 35 injuries, according to the Houthi-run health ministry. Al-Masirah satellite television, affiliated with the rebels, reported a strike on an oil company, with social media videos showing a fireball at the scene.
Israel’s military targeted the Asar and Hizaz power plants, referring to them as crucial facilities for military operations, along with a military site near the presidential palace. The airstrikes triggered explosions near a closed military academy and the presidential palace, causing plumes of smoke to rise in Sabeen Square, a central area of the capital. Residents reported feeling the impact of the strikes, with houses shaking and windows shattering due to the force of the blasts.
The Houthis have been actively launching missiles and drones towards Israel and targeting ships in the Red Sea for over 22 months, citing solidarity with Palestinians during the conflict in Gaza. Nasruddin Amer, deputy head of the Houthi media office, stated their determination to continue attacking Israel until the siege on Gaza is lifted and the aggression stops. The recent strikes represent an escalation in tensions following the firing of a new type of missile towards Israel targeting Ben Gurion airport, which was intercepted without causing damage.
The Israeli Air Force identified Friday’s projectile as a cluster munition, designed to split into multiple explosives upon impact, making interception more challenging. Israel attributed the advanced technology used by the Houthis to support from Iran. The Defense Minister of Israel, Israel Katz, reiterated the country’s commitment to maintaining an air and naval blockade in the region, although specific details were not disclosed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscored that the Houthi attacks on Israel come with severe consequences and a heavy price.
The Houthis’ disruptive actions over the past two years have significantly impacted shipping in the Red Sea, a vital route for global trade. Following a brief ceasefire in Gaza, the Houthis resumed attacks on ships in the Red Sea and became the target of an airstrike campaign led by the U.S. President Donald Trump. Efforts have been made to reach agreements to end hostilities, but the recent escalation in violence underscores the ongoing challenges in the region. Israeli airstrikes have been a common response to provocations from the Houthis, targeting critical infrastructure to deter further attacks and ensure the safety of Israeli citizens.