Houthi-run media reports minor impacts from Israeli strikes aimed at halting military use of Hudaydah port, a key entry for humanitarian aid, which has faced consistent assaults linked to regional conflict dynamics.
Israeli Naval Strikes Target Houthi-Controlled Hudaydah Amid Rising Tensions
Israeli Naval Strikes Target Houthi-Controlled Hudaydah Amid Rising Tensions
The Israeli Navy conducts strikes on Hudaydah's port city in response to Houthi missile threats against Israel.
Israeli naval forces have targeted the port city of Hudaydah, held by the Houthi movement in Yemen, following recent missile attacks from the group aimed at Israel. According to a statement from the Israeli military, these actions are intended to prevent the port’s use for “military purposes.” Though the strikes occurred early Tuesday morning, there have been no immediate reports of casualties.
Images shared via social media captured dark smoke rising from the port, with al-Masirah TV, a news outlet aligned with the Houthis, confirming two separate strikes. The Houthis have consistently launched missiles in support of Palestinians in Gaza, with a recent interception occurring over Jerusalem, and attacks previously reaching significant Israeli locations, including the main airport.
The unexpected naval strikes, as opposed to routine aerial bombings, were announced after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued evacuation alerts for personnel present in Hudaydah and nearby Houthi-controlled ports. Avichay Adraee, an IDF Arabic spokesperson, urged civilians to stay away for safety reasons due to the port's perceived connection to Houthi militant activities.
Nasruddin Amer, deputy head of the Houthis’ media office, commented on social media that the airstrike did not significantly disrupt the group's operations or diminish morale in their protests for Gaza.
Hudaydah serves as a critical entry point for food and humanitarian supplies to millions of Yemenis, frequently facing Israeli attacks over the past year. Although past strikes have caused casualties and operational delays— one last month killed a person and led to extensive damage— the Houthis remain resilient, bolstering their efforts in support of Gaza.
The Iran-backed Houthi movement has maintained control over much of north-western Yemen since ousting the recognized government in 2014. Following escalation in the Gaza conflict initiated by Hamas’ assault on Israel, the Houthis took to targeting Red Sea trade routes, leading to significant maritime disruptions and heightened tensions, prompting US military responses in the region.
