The airstrikes risk escalating tensions with the Iran-backed Houthis, who have been involved in attacks on the Red Sea shipping corridor, disrupting global trade. The Houthis launched a missile targeting central Israel early Thursday, which was intercepted by Israel's military.
The Israeli Defence Minister warned that anyone who attacks Israel will face severe consequences. The Israeli military accused the Houthis of using the targeted infrastructure for military purposes, including smuggling Iranian weapons.
Houthi-controlled Hodeida port is a crucial gateway for food shipments to Yemen, amid its decade-long conflict. Israel previously targeted the Hodeida region in July and September 2024 after Houthi missile attacks on Israel.
The Houthis claimed responsibility for the missile attack, stating they launched two “Palestine” ballistic missiles at Israel. The Israeli airstrikes on Thursday were carried out independently, with no involvement from the United States, according to a US military official.
American forces have conducted several strikes against the Houthis due to their attacks on Red Sea shipping. The Houthis have attacked nearly 100 merchant vessels since the Israel-Hamas war began in October 2023, as part of their ongoing campaign against Israel and its allies.
Israel's ongoing offensive against Hamas in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with over 45,000 Palestinians reported dead. The Houthi rebellion has become a key player in the larger regional conflict, maintaining influence despite ongoing warfare in Yemen, which has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
