Tensions between Israel and Yemen’s Houthi rebels continue to rise following a new wave of airstrikes. The Israel Houthi attacks have targeted three Yemeni ports and a power station in the city of Hodeidah. The strikes occurred after missiles were launched from Yemen toward Israel.
According to the Israeli military, two missiles were fired from Yemen. Efforts were made to intercept them, but the results are still being reviewed. The Israeli ambulance service confirmed that no missile impacts or casualties had been reported.
These recent Israel Houthi attacks are part of ongoing hostilities since the Gaza war began in October 2023. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have repeatedly targeted Israel and disrupted shipping in the Red Sea. Most of their missile and drone attacks have been intercepted or failed to reach their targets.
Israel responded by launching a series of strikes, including an attack on the Galaxy Leader ship docked at Ras Isa port. This ship had been seized by the Houthis in late 2023 and was reportedly being used as a radar base to monitor maritime activity.
Houthi officials stated their air defenses responded to the Israeli attacks using locally made surface-to-air missiles. However, no casualties have been reported so far.
The strike on Hodeidah caused a citywide blackout, as the main power station was knocked out. Residents confirmed to Reuters that the city is now without electricity.
Shortly before the strikes, Israel had issued an evacuation warning for the three targeted ports. Meanwhile, a ship was attacked off the coast of Hodeidah, forcing the crew to abandon it. While no group has claimed responsibility, the ship matched the typical profile of a Houthi target.
The ongoing Israel Houthi attacks reflect broader regional tensions. Though Israel has weakened Iran’s allies like Hezbollah and Hamas, the Houthis remain a significant force in the region. Their leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, has grown the group into a powerful militia with drones and missiles, despite international concerns about Iranian support—something Tehran denies.
Israeli airstrikes kill 35 in Gaza as ceasefire talks continue and regional tensions rise — Read full story for latest updates