Israeli Air Strikes Devastate Yemen's Sanaa Airport Amid Escalating Conflict

Israel has launched a significant military strike on Yemen's capital, Sanaa, targeting civilian infrastructure and escalating regional tensions.

The Israeli military has confirmed it has "fully disabled" Yemen's main airport located in the capital of Sanaa, following a series of airstrikes that have drawn international attention. Control of the city lies with the Iran-backed Houthi movement, which has responded to the attacks with threats of retaliation.

The strikes on Tuesday specifically targeted three civilian aircraft operated by Yemenia Airlines, the terminal building, the runway, and a military airbase according to local airport sources. A representative for the airport stated to AFP that the damage inflicted resulted in "complete destruction" of the site.

The escalation follows a Houthi missile attack that narrowly missed hitting Israel's Ben Gurion Airport, occurring just two days prior, and led to a brief closure. In response, Israel's military undertook actions against various strategic targets, including the Yemeni port city of Hudaydah before striking Sanaa airport.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made remarks indicating that individuals targeting Israel would face severe consequences. He stated that decisions regarding military responses take various factors into account, emphasizing that those who strike Israel "bear responsibility for his own blood."

The Houthi leadership has condemned the Israeli strikes, branding them "failed terrorism" and hinted at upcoming responses. A member of the Houthi political body, Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, claimed that as support for Gaza persists, escalated responses from their side are imminent.

The air strikes targeted not only the airport but also hit significant energy supply infrastructure, including power stations vital to the Houthis. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) alleged that the airport functions were being utilized for transferring weapons and operatives.

In a surprising turn of events, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. would cease its military actions against the Houthis following claims that they "capitulated." Speaking alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the White House, Trump suggested this decision would help ensure freedom of navigation and facilitate international trade.

The situation was further compounded by a recent ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and the Houthis, announced by the Omani foreign minister, which prohibits attacks from either side.

The previous day saw Israeli airstrikes on Hudaydah, which is recognized as a crucial entry point for Yemen’s food imports. That raid resulted in casualties, according to Houthi sources, who blamed both Israel and the U.S. for the violence, although a U.S. defense official denied American involvement.

The Houthi missile aimed at Ben Gurion Airport resulted in injuries to six people, prompting further threats of retaliation against Israeli air travel and a possible aerial blockade targeting Israel's airports.

Historically, Israel has engaged in multiple rounds of strikes against Houthi targets, including attacks on power stations and ports earlier in the year. The geopolitical situation continues to develop, raising concerns over increased conflict in a region already facing multiple crises.