Israel conducted airstrikes on Thursday against multiple targets associated with the Iran-aligned Houthi movement in Yemen, resulting in the deaths of at least six individuals, according to Houthi media reports. The strikes included Sanaa International Airport, where the head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was preparing to board a flight when the attack occurred, injuring a crew member.
The Israeli military confirmed that in addition to the airport, it targeted military infrastructure at the ports of Hodeidah, Salif, and Ras Kanatib along Yemen’s west coast, as well as power stations in Hezyaz and Ras Kanatib.
Casualties and Damage Reported
The Houthi-controlled Saba news agency reported that three people were killed at the airport and three others in Hodeidah, with 40 additional individuals wounded in the attacks. Following the strikes, the Houthis vowed to respond swiftly, stating they would meet “escalation with escalation,” as reported by Houthi-run Al Masirah TV.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that the military campaign against the Houthis is just beginning, emphasizing the ongoing threat posed by Iran-backed groups in the region.
Tedros, who was in Yemen to negotiate the release of detained U.N. staff and assess the humanitarian situation, described the attack as alarming. He noted that the air traffic control tower, departure lounge, and runway were damaged during the bombardment, but he and his colleagues remained safe.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the airstrikes, labeling them “especially alarming” given the recent escalation of Houthi actions. He called for all parties to cease military operations and exercise restraint, warning that attacks on critical infrastructure pose significant risks to humanitarian efforts in a country already facing dire needs.
The Houthi transport minister announced that, despite the ongoing conflict, Sanaa Airport and Hodeidah port would resume normal operations starting Friday.
Impact on Global Shipping and Security Council Meeting
The Houthi attacks have disrupted international shipping routes, leading to longer and more costly detours that heighten global inflation fears. The U.N. Security Council is scheduled to convene on Monday to discuss the recent Houthi attacks against Israel, as stated by Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon.
In a related incident, Israel’s military failed to intercept a missile launched from Yemen that landed in the Tel Aviv-Jaffa area on Saturday, injuring 14 people.
