Hodeida Port Attack: Israel Targets Houthis Amid Tensions
On Tuesday, Israeli forces launched a significant attack on the Yemeni port of Hodeida, an area held by the Iran-supported Houthi rebels. This strike marks a notable escalation in the ongoing conflict, as Israel aims to disrupt the Houthis’ military capabilities. The Israeli military reported that the naval forces struck what they described as “terror targets” linked to the Houthi regime, emphasizing the port’s role in the transfer of weapons.
The attack came in response to earlier missile and drone threats posed by the Houthis, which intensified after the onset of the Gaza conflict in October 2023. Following a two-month ceasefire in Gaza, the Houthis had claimed to be acting in support of Palestinians but resumed their operations once Israel intensified its military efforts in the region.
Missile Launches Towards Israel
Later that Tuesday, Israeli military officials reported detecting a missile launch from Yemen aimed at Israeli territory. This prompted air raid sirens in several locations, signifying increased tension in the region. Witnesses in Jerusalem reported hearing loud explosions, suggesting the interception of the missile.
The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, with military spokesperson Yahya Saree announcing in a video message that two ballistic missiles were fired at Israel’s primary airport. Al-Masirah, the Houthi media outlet, also confirmed that strikes targeted the port’s docks.
Israeli Government’s Response
In reaction to the missile threats, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning to the Houthi group, stating that further assaults would result in a strong Israeli response, including potential naval and aerial blockades. Simultaneously, military spokesperson Avichay Adraee urged civilians in Houthi-controlled areas to evacuate for their safety, specifically mentioning Hodeida and two other strategic ports.
Israel’s air defense systems have effectively intercepted most projectiles launched from Yemen during the ongoing Gaza conflict, which escalated following a major attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. An incident in early May saw a missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport, creating significant damage and injuring several individuals.
Targeting Houthi Leadership and Ongoing Conflict
Continued Israeli air strikes have demolished various targets within Yemen, including a recent strike on the last operational plane at Sanaa airport. Furthermore, Israeli officials have hinted at actions aimed at dismantling the Houthi leadership structure. This series of escalating military actions underscores Israel’s determination to mitigate threats from the Houthis amidst the broader conflict.
The ongoing struggle has roots in a civil war that has persisted since 2015, primarily between the Houthis and a Saudi-led coalition. This conflict has led to a staggering humanitarian crisis, claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands, although recent UN-brokered truce negotiations have momentarily reduced hostilities.
