Israeli Airstrikes Target Houthi-Controlled Sites in Yemen's Capital, Sanaa
On Sunday, Israeli forces conducted airstrikes on Sanaa, the capital of Yemen, focusing on multiple locations held by Houthi rebels backed by Iran. This action follows the group's recent claim of launching missiles toward Israel.
The Houthi media reported that the airstrikes affected several parts of the city, including a power facility and a gas station. Nearby residents witnessed intense explosions around the presidential palace and a closed military academy. Smoke was observed rising near Sabeen Square, a prominent location in Sanaa.
Hussein Mohamed, a local resident, mentioned, “The sound of explosions was very strong.” Another resident, Ahmed al-Mekhlafy, noted that the blasts rocked his home, shattering the windows.
The airstrikes were in response to claims made by the Houthis two days earlier that they had launched advanced missiles at Israel, including an attempt on the nation’s largest airport. The Israeli military reported that the projectile, a cluster munition, disintegrated mid-air following multiple interception efforts, with no reported damage or casualties.
An Israeli Air Force representative described the missile as presenting a "new threat," citing its cluster munition characteristics as evidence of Iranian technological support to the Houthis.
The Houthis have stated their attacks are meant to show solidarity with Palestinians in light of the conflict in Gaza. For over 22 months, they have launched missiles and drones at Israel and targeted vessels in the Red Sea, disrupting a crucial global trade route that manages nearly $1 trillion in goods annually.
Between November 2023 and December 2024, they attacked over 100 ships, pausing briefly during a ceasefire. In May, a U.S.-brokered agreement led to the cessation of American airstrikes in exchange for the Houthis halting their attacks on shipping activities, although the group maintained its stance on targeting Israeli-associated interests.
The recent airstrikes mark the first Israeli assault on Sanaa in a week. Previously, in May, Israel executed a rare daytime strike on the city’s airport, severely damaging its infrastructure, including the terminal and several aircraft on the runway, among them three planes from Yemenia Airways.
While there has been no official confirmation from Israel regarding Sunday’s operation, these strikes add to the ongoing tension in the Middle East involving Israel and Iran-supported militias.
