Israel Claims Responsibility for Airstrikes That Cripple Yemen’s Main Airport Amid Rising Tensions with Houthi Rebels
In a significant escalation of regional conflict, Israel has confirmed it launched airstrikes that disabled Yemen’s primary airport, targeting Houthi rebel infrastructure in response to continued attacks on Red Sea shipping routes. The operation, which struck Sanaa International Airport, marks a dramatic turn in Israel’s military engagement beyond its immediate borders.
The Israeli military stated the strikes were part of a broader effort to deter Houthi aggression, which has threatened commercial maritime activity and regional security. “We have taken precise action to neutralize threats from Houthi forces that have endangered international shipping and regional stability,” an IDF spokesperson said in a press release.
The airstrikes reportedly hit runways, radar systems, and facilities believed to be used for launching drone and missile attacks. Satellite imagery and local reports suggest the airport has been rendered largely inoperable, halting both civilian and military aviation activity in the capital.
The Houthis, a powerful Iran-backed faction that controls much of northern Yemen, have been ramping up their attacks in the Red Sea—claiming solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. These attacks have included missile launches and drone strikes on cargo ships allegedly linked to Israel and Western allies.
Israel’s action comes after repeated warnings and several international coalition efforts, including U.S. and British airstrikes, failed to fully suppress the Houthis’ growing capabilities. By directly targeting Sanaa’s airport, Israel has signaled a willingness to broaden its military footprint in the region, potentially complicating the already fragile situation in the Arabian Peninsula.
Houthi officials have condemned the airstrikes, vowing retaliation and accusing Israel of violating Yemen’s sovereignty. “This aggression will not go unanswered,” said a Houthi military spokesperson. “The Zionist enemy is escalating the war against the Yemeni people, and we will respond accordingly.”
The international community has reacted with concern, warning that the latest developments could further destabilize a region already burdened by multiple conflicts. Humanitarian groups operating in Yemen fear the loss of the country’s main airport could severely impact the delivery of aid in a nation already facing widespread famine and economic collapse.
Analysts believe Israel’s move is intended not only as a military deterrent but also as a geopolitical message to Iran and its regional proxies. “This strike is about establishing red lines,” said Middle East policy expert Talia Friedman. “It shows that Israel is willing to go beyond traditional boundaries to defend its national and economic interests.”
As tensions rise across the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and beyond, the risk of a broader conflict looms. Regional powers and international stakeholders are now calling for restraint to avoid further destabilization of critical trade routes and already fragile diplomatic efforts.
Source : Swifteradio.com
