In a significant escalation, Israel conducted a series of airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of six individuals and injuring 40 others, as reported by Yemen's Saba news agency. Among the targeted sites was the Sanaa International Airport, where the head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was preparing to board a flight when the airport came under attack. A crew member aboard the plane sustained injuries during the assault.
The Israeli military expanded its operations beyond the airport, striking military infrastructure at the ports of Hodeidah, Salif, and Ras Kanatib on Yemen's west coast. Additionally, power stations in Hezyaz and Ras Kanatib were targeted, signaling a broad campaign against Houthi capabilities.
Houthi media responded swiftly, declaring their readiness to retaliate and escalate the conflict further. This latest move by the Houthis follows a pattern of drone and missile attacks directed at Israel, expressions of their solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
In a joint video statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed to eliminate Houthi leadership and dismantle the group's military infrastructure. Katz emphasized, \"No one will escape Israel's long arm. We will strike them to eliminate threats against Israel.\" This declaration underscores Israel's determination to neutralize perceived threats and assert its military prowess in the region.
The international community watches closely as tensions mount, with potential implications for regional stability and global geopolitical dynamics.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
