Houthis Pledge Continued Attacks on Israel Despite Yemen Airstrikes
A senior Houthi official has declared that the group will intensify its military actions against Israel, undeterred by escalating Israeli airstrikes in Yemen. Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the group’s political bureau, emphasized their unwavering support for Palestinians, stating that attacks on Israel would continue until what he called “genocide in Gaza” ends.
In an interview with the BBC, al-Bukhaiti announced plans to escalate operations, criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza. His comments followed deadly Israeli airstrikes on Thursday, which targeted Sanaa’s international airport, as well as power stations and ports along Yemen’s Red Sea coast. At least four people were reported dead from the strikes.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded firmly, warning that Israel’s retaliation against Houthi missile and drone attacks was “just beginning.” Overnight, Israeli forces intercepted a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis before it reached Israeli airspace.
UN Voices Concern Over Escalation
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed alarm over the mounting violence, particularly condemning the strikes on Yemen’s critical infrastructure. He warned that the attacks on airports and ports posed severe risks to humanitarian operations in a country already ravaged by conflict.
The airstrikes come amid heightened tensions since the Houthis began launching attacks against Israel and international shipping in October 2023, coinciding with the war in Gaza. According to the Israeli military, over 400 missiles and drones have been fired at Israel from Yemen, most of which were intercepted.
Houthis Defend Their Actions
Al-Bukhaiti claimed the Houthis have the resources to sustain their military campaign against Israel without external support. While denying Iranian influence, he criticized the US, UK, and Israel, accusing them of fueling regional instability.
“We are fully prepared to continue this battle independently. We will not relent until the siege on Gaza is lifted and the atrocities stop,” he said.
Israel has conducted multiple airstrikes in Yemen since July, targeting what it describes as Houthi military infrastructure. Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed to pursue Houthi leaders, likening the group to other adversaries like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Civilians and Humanitarian Efforts Impacted
The Houthi-controlled Saba news agency reported that Israeli strikes primarily hit civilian infrastructure, with casualties and significant damage in Sanaa and Hudaydah. Yemen’s deputy transport minister claimed that critical facilities at Sanaa airport, including the control tower and departure lounge, were destroyed.
The timing of the airport strikes was particularly contentious, occurring just as WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was about to depart on a humanitarian flight. A UNHAS crew member was seriously injured during the attack and later evacuated to Jordan.
Dr. Tedros condemned the violence, stressing the need to protect civilians and humanitarian workers. He urged all parties to respect international law and allow unhindered aid operations.
Global Calls for Restraint
The escalating conflict has drawn widespread international concern. UN spokeswoman Stéphanie Tremblay reiterated calls for all sides to halt military actions and exercise restraint.
With tensions running high, the region faces the prospect of further violence, risking deeper humanitarian crises and broader regional instability.
