Sanaa: Recent Israeli airstrikes on Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, and the port city of Hodeidah have resulted in the deaths of at least nine individuals, as reported by Houthi-controlled media. These attacks have heightened tensions in the region amidst the ongoing conflict surrounding Gaza.
The Israeli military has confirmed that it targeted what it labeled as “military sites” in Yemen, including vital ports and energy infrastructure. Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari stated that the airstrikes aimed at Houthi positions following the interception of a missile allegedly launched toward Israel. “The targets attacked are used by the Houthi forces for their military operations,” Hagari declared.
Details of the Attacks
According to Al Masirah TV, the primary news outlet controlled by the Houthis, seven of the nine fatalities occurred during an Israeli strike on the port of as-Salif in Hodeidah. The remaining casualties were reported in airstrikes targeting the Ras Isa oil facility. The Israeli attacks also hit power stations both south and north of Sanaa, with Yemen’s official SABA news agency confirming additional raids in Hodeidah, resulting in injuries among workers.
Accusations of Hypocrisy
Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi political bureau, criticized the United States and Israel for what he described as hypocrisy. He stated, “The US-Israeli bombing of civilian facilities in Yemen, such as power stations and ports, reveals the truth about the West’s hypocrisy and refutes all its humanitarian claims.” Al-Bukhaiti reiterated the Houthis’ commitment to supporting Gaza, stating that these airstrikes would not deter their efforts. “We will meet escalation with escalation until the genocide crimes in Gaza stop and food, medicine, and fuel are allowed to enter its residents,” he announced on the social media platform X.
Context of the Conflict
Hussain al-Bukhaiti, a commentator supportive of the Houthis, indicated that the Israeli attacks were a direct reaction to Yemen’s continued strikes on Israeli targets. He noted that Yemen has been conducting weekly attacks on Israeli targets or on ships perceived to be supporting Israel.
The Houthis have actively engaged in strikes against Israeli targets as part of their broader campaign to support Palestinians affected by the ongoing violence in Gaza, which has reportedly resulted in over 45,000 Palestinian deaths, many of whom are women and children. The Houthis have made it clear that they will not halt their campaign unless Israel ends its military operations in Gaza, lifts its blockade, and withdraws from the region.
Broader Regional Impact
Since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, the Israeli military has intensified its actions in Lebanon and Syria. Over 3,000 deaths in Lebanon have been attributed to Israeli operations, while more than 260 fatalities have occurred in Syria due to over 144 armed strikes by Israel. These military actions have escalated under the justification of “self-defense,” as Israel seeks to respond to perceived threats in the region.
Conclusion
The recent Israeli airstrikes on Yemen underscore the escalating conflict in the Middle East, revealing a complex web of military actions and geopolitical alliances. The loss of civilian lives in Yemen amidst the broader tensions surrounding Gaza highlights the urgent need for dialogue and resolution in a region plagued by violence and instability.
