The United States launched airstrikes in Yemen’s Huthi-controlled capital on Saturday. This action followed a missile attack by Huthi rebels that struck Tel Aviv, Israel’s commercial hub, injuring 16 people.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes specifically targeted a rebel missile storage facility and a command center. Notably, this marked the second missile attack on Israel by the Huthis in just two days.
US Forces Respond Swiftly
Meanwhile, US forces intercepted multiple Huthi drones and an anti-ship cruise missile over the Red Sea. Shortly before this, the Huthis’ Al-Masirah TV reported that Western forces had attacked the Attan district in Sanaa.
Throughout the year, the US and Britain have repeatedly retaliated against the Huthis. These strikes aim to counter rebel attacks on vessels navigating the Red Sea, which is crucial for global trade. Similarly, Israel has carried out retaliatory strikes, targeting Huthi-controlled ports and energy facilities after rebel aggression.
Huthis Take Responsibility
Significantly, the Iran-backed Huthis claimed responsibility for Saturday’s attack. They stated that the ballistic missile targeted “a military target of the Israeli enemy.” However, Israel admitted it failed to intercept the missile, which forced residents to evacuate their homes.
“The missile could not be intercepted,” Israel’s military confirmed on Telegram. “Israeli civilians were deliberately targeted.” Consequently, authorities urged citizens to follow safety instructions, emphasizing that Israel’s aerial defenses are not foolproof.
Chaos Unfolds in Tel Aviv
Following the attack, residents shared their harrowing experiences. For instance, Yosef Kourdi, a medic, described the scene: “I heard a loud explosion and saw significant damage to nearby buildings.” Emergency teams treated 16 individuals injured by shattered glass.
Similarly, Ido Barnea, an IT manager, recounted, “A missile alert woke me before 4 a.m. Then, I saw a big ball of fire in the sky.” Another resident, Noa Mosseri, said, “We didn’t have time to reach a safe place. Within seconds, there was a boom.”
As a result, many residents evacuated with only essentials. Images showed a large crater at the strike site and debris scattered inside homes. Police quickly cordoned off the affected area.
Rebels Pledge Continued Attacks
In response to the airstrikes, the Huthis vowed to continue targeting Israel until the Gaza blockade is lifted. This attack came just two days after another missile partially damaged an Israeli school. In retaliation, Israel launched strikes on Huthi positions in Yemen, including Sanaa.
Huthi leader Abdul Malik al-Huthi claimed that Israeli airstrikes killed nine civilians. Hours later, Israel intercepted a drone over its southern region. Although the drone’s origin was not confirmed, similar attacks have been linked to pro-Iran groups in Iraq.
Netanyahu Issues a Warning
Following these events, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning to the Huthis. “The Huthis are part of Iran’s axis of evil,” he stated. “Those who attack Israel will pay a heavy price.”
Since the Gaza war began, the Huthis have frequently targeted Israel in solidarity with Palestinians. Although Israel has intercepted most of these attacks, some have caused damage, further escalating tensions in the region.
