Israel carried out airstrikes on multiple targets linked to the Iran-aligned Houthi movement in Yemen on December 26, 2024, including an attack on Sana’a International Airport. Houthi media reported that at least six people were killed during the strikes.
Details of the Airstrikes
The Israeli military targeted several key locations, including the airport, military infrastructure at the ports of Hodeidah, Salif, and Ras Kanatib along Yemen’s western coast, as well as power stations in Hezyaz and Ras Kanatib. According to Houthi-run media, three individuals were killed at the airport and another three at Hodeidah, with 40 others wounded in the attacks.
The World Health Organization’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was at Sana’a airport preparing to board a flight when the bombing occurred. He confirmed that one of the plane’s crew members was injured, while the air traffic control tower, departure lounge, and runway sustained damage.
Houthi Response and Escalation
In response to the Israeli strikes, the Houthis declared their readiness to retaliate, with Houthi-run Al Masirah TV quoting officials stating that they would “meet escalation with escalation.” The Houthis have previously launched drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, framing these actions as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview, stated that Israel’s campaign against the Houthis was only beginning, signaling more military actions ahead.
UN Condemnation and Concerns
The United Nations has expressed concern over the escalation of violence. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the airstrikes “especially alarming” and highlighted the risks posed to humanitarian operations. He warned that further military actions could undermine the delivery of life-saving assistance to millions of people in need, especially as the Houthis’ attacks have already disrupted critical shipping routes in the Red Sea, contributing to global inflation concerns.
In a further sign of tension, the UN Security Council is scheduled to meet on Monday to discuss the Houthi attacks on Israel. Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon emphasized the need for global attention on the issue.
Ongoing Tensions and Future Risks
The Houthi-led disruptions of international shipping, particularly through the Red Sea, have already had a significant impact on global trade, forcing companies to reroute shipments to longer and more costly paths. This, in turn, has sparked concerns about potential inflationary pressures worldwide.
The escalation of hostilities between Israel and the Houthis signals the ongoing volatility in the region, with both sides preparing for further military actions.
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