The Israeli Defense Forces hit Houthi sites in Yemen after a missile attack targeted an airport, raising tensions in the region.
**Israel Launches Strikes on Houthi Facilities in Yemen Following Airport Attack**
**Israel Launches Strikes on Houthi Facilities in Yemen Following Airport Attack**
Israel retaliates against Houthi missile threat to its Ben Gurion Airport with targeted airstrikes in Yemen.
Israel confirmed on Monday that it conducted military strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen as a direct response to a missile attack on Ben Gurion Airport the preceding day. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that they aimed for locations deemed essential for the Houthi's operations, specifically targeting facilities in Hudaydah Port and the Bajil cement factory located east of the port city.
The incident followed a missile aimed at Israel's main airport on Sunday morning, which the Houthis claimed was part of their strategy to impose a "comprehensive aerial blockade" on Israel. This declaration came in reaction to Israel's increased military activities in Gaza. The Houthis reported that their defenses had sustained injuries during the retaliatory strikes, labeling the coordinated assault as a joint act of "US-Israeli aggression," a claim that the US promptly denied.
The IDF emphasized that their airstrikes had been executed with precision, taking precautions to avoid harming vessels in the busy port, which accounts for around 80% of Yemen's essential food imports. Reports indicated that at least 21 people suffered injuries as a result of the attacks on Houthi positions, which included more than 10 strikes aimed at the port and additional targets in the surrounding area.
The likely escalation of hostilities comes amidst a backdrop of complex geopolitical tensions, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing vigorous retaliation in response to the initial missile threat. The IDF's latest operations reflect ongoing US involvement in the region, with some airstrikes targeting Houthis under previous and current US administrations.
The Houthis' recent actions have prompted significant concern, particularly as they also claim to act independently, as highlighted by Iran's comments regarding the uptick in aggression. The situation remains fluid, intensifying fears of broader conflict amid regional hostilities.
