Israeli airstrikes on a Yemeni port have resulted in at least three fatalities and numerous injuries, according to Houthi rebels. The strikes were in response to a deadly attack on Tel Aviv claimed by the Iran-backed Houthi group.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) targeted military sites of the Houthi regime in the vicinity of Yemen's Hodeidah Port. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that this action was a direct retaliation for the death of an Israeli citizen in a Houthi drone attack on Tel Aviv.
This marks the first instance of Israel conducting strikes in Yemen. The Houthi-run Al Masirah TV reported that the airstrikes hit oil facilities in the port, resulting in casualties and severe injuries, with many individuals sustaining burns.
Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam condemned the Israeli aggression, alleging that civilian targets and a power station were also hit. He accused Israel of attempting to exacerbate the suffering of the Yemeni people and coerce the group to cease its support for Gaza.
Following the strike, Houthi army spokesperson Yehya Saree vowed to retaliate, emphasizing that Israel's major city, Tel Aviv, remained a potential target. Saree affirmed the group's readiness for a prolonged conflict until the blockade on Palestinians is lifted.
Netanyahu justified the operation by highlighting Hodeidah's military utilization and role in facilitating weapon transfers from Iran to the Houthis. He underscored Israel's resolve in responding to threats, emphasizing the reach of Israel's military capabilities.
The IDF intercepted a surface-to-surface missile from Yemen, preventing it from entering Israeli territory. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the strikes and urged all parties to avoid actions that could harm civilians.
The Israeli military cited previous Houthi attacks on Israel as a factor in the decision to conduct the airstrikes. The Houthis have targeted Israel with drones and missiles, with the recent Tel Aviv attack causing injuries and showcasing new drone capabilities.
While the UK and US have responded to Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, Israel independently carried out these strikes in response to the Tel Aviv incident. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant informed the US of the impending strike, indicating prior preparations for such a response.
US President Joe Biden was briefed on the developments, with the US affirming Israel's right to self-defense. The White House clarified that while there was no coordination on the airstrikes, Israel's actions were recognized within the context of self-defense.
