Israel Strikes Houthi Targets in Yemen in Response to Attacks

Israel conducted military strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen in response to repeated attacks by the Iran-aligned group. The strikes targeted ports in Hodeidah, Ras Isa, and Salif, as well as the Ras Qantib power plant. The ship Galaxy Leader in Ras Isa port, seized by the Houthis in late 2023, was also attacked. The Israeli military stated that the Houthis had installed a radar system on the ship to track vessels in international maritime space.

Al-Masirah TV reported that Israel launched strikes on Hodeidah following an evacuation warning issued by the Israeli military. This came after a ship was attacked off the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, leading to the crew abandoning the vessel. While no one claimed responsibility for the attack, security firm Ambrey noted that the ship fit the typical profile of a Houthi target.

Since the conflict in Gaza in October 2023, the Houthis have targeted Israel and shipping in the Red Sea, citing solidarity with Palestinians. They have attacked over 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones, resulting in casualties and disruptions to global trade. Israel has responded with retaliatory strikes to counter these threats.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) emphasized that the ports targeted by the strikes were used by the Houthis to transfer combat equipment from Iran for terrorist activities against Israel and its allies. Despite a temporary pause in attacks, the IDF remains committed to defending Israel against any threats, regardless of their origin or distance.

The timing of the strikes is crucial, coinciding with delicate negotiations in the Middle East, including a potential ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict and Iran's decision on restarting talks about its nuclear program following US actions.

According to the source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation.