In a retaliatory move, the Israeli military launched air strikes on Yemen’s Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, a day after a drone attack by the Houthi group killed one person and injured ten others in Tel Aviv.
The Saturday air strikes targeted oil storage facilities and a power plant in Hodeidah, resulting in fires and casualties, according to Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV. While the Houthis reported unspecified fatalities, Israeli officials stated that only “military targets” were hit.
This marks Israel’s first direct assault on the Houthis since the Gaza conflict began, heightening tensions across the Middle East. Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdel Salam condemned the strikes, asserting they aim to force Yemen to cease support for Gaza, a goal he deemed unattainable. He emphasized that the attack would only strengthen Yemeni resolve.
Hamas also condemned the Israeli action, with Izzat al-Rishq of its political bureau predicting repercussions for Israel. Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Yaov Gallant praised the attack as a deterrent to Israel’s enemies, citing over 200 previous Houthi attacks on Israel. Gallant warned that Israel would respond decisively to any threats.
The Houthis, aligned with Iran and acting as Yemen’s de facto armed forces, have targeted Red Sea shipping lanes to pressure Israel over its Gaza operations, which have resulted in over 38,900 Palestinian deaths. Despite most missile and drone attacks being intercepted, a recent Houthi drone breached Israeli defenses, causing a significant security lapse.
The U.S. and U.K. have also conducted air strikes in Yemen in response to Houthi actions, but these efforts have not halted the group’s attacks.
Al Jazeera’s Hamdah Salhut noted that the Israeli military, already engaged on multiple fronts, faces increased strain with this new conflict in Yemen, potentially leading to recruitment and deployment challenges.
The Houthis are a Shia Muslim political and military movement that has dominated much of Yemen since 2014. Originating from the Zaidi Shia community in the north, the group has expanded its influence through a complex interplay of tribal, religious, and political factors.
Initially marginalized, the Houthis capitalized on Yemen’s political instability to challenge the central government. Their rapid ascent to power, coupled with their control over the capital Sana’a, sparked a devastating civil war. The conflict has had catastrophic humanitarian consequences, with millions displaced and facing famine.
Accusations of Iranian backing have further complicated the situation, drawing regional powers into the fray. While the Houthis deny these claims, their influence and capabilities have expanded significantly, raising concerns about their long-term intentions and the future of Yemen.
The Houthis remain a complex and controversial force, their role in Yemen’s future uncertain as the country grapples with the challenges of rebuilding and reconciliation.
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Every conflict have its essence of truth and justice on both side, yet mankind should learn to live in peace or else animals will rule over mankind.