Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has labeled Yemen’s Houthi movement as “a threat to Israel and the entire region,” warning of severe consequences for their continued aggression. Netanyahu’s remarks come on the heels of significant Israeli airstrikes on Yemeni infrastructure.
Targets Struck in Yemen
The Israeli military confirmed it attacked key locations, including the ports of Hodeidah and Ras Issa, as well as the Hezyaz power plant in Sanaa, Yemen’s capital. The strikes reportedly targeted facilities used by Houthi fighters for operational purposes.
Speaking from Tel Aviv’s Air Force command center, Defense Minister Israel Katz stated:
“The port of Hodeidah is paralyzed, and the Ras Issa port is ablaze. Israel’s long arm reaches and will continue to reach anywhere that threatens us — even in Yemen.”
Katz added that these strikes serve as a direct warning to Houthi leadership, emphasizing that “no one will be immune.”
Houthi Aggression and Retaliation
Since October 2023, Houthi forces have fired approximately 320 drones and 40 surface-to-surface missiles into Israel, with most intercepted, according to military figures. The Houthis began launching intermittent strikes on Israel after the escalation of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, citing solidarity with Palestinians.
In retaliation, Israeli forces have conducted at least seven major strikes on Yemen, as reported by Army Radio. The Houthis have also targeted US warships in response to frequent airstrikes by the US-led naval coalition, which has been active since January 2024.
Regional Implications
The escalating conflict underscores the broader destabilization in the Middle East. With the Houthis expanding their attacks and Israel intensifying its response, tensions in the region are expected to remain high.
As the situation develops, both sides have shown little indication of de-escalation, further complicating regional security dynamics.
