The U.S. has reportedly carried out a new airstrike in Yemen following claims from the Iran-supported Houthis about missiles landing near major airports in Israel over the weekend.
Yemen’s Houthi-controlled state news agency reported that the “American invasion” was behind several attacks in the capital, Sanaa, on Monday, injuring at least 16 people.
The U.S. Secretary of Defense mentioned that, since March 15, the U.S. Central Command has been engaged in a significant campaign targeting Houthi forces. The objective is to restore navigation and maintain deterrence, with commitments to exert ongoing pressure on Houthi capabilities to secure freedom of navigation.
In response to the missile incidents that briefly halted operations at Israel’s main international airport near Tel Aviv, the Houthis have vowed to intensify their attacks, specifically threatening consistent targeting of Ben Gurion Airport.
The Houthis had previously warned Israel of a potential “comprehensive air blockade” as Prime Minister Netanyahu’s cabinet was considering escalating efforts in Gaza.
Netanyahu has expressed that the U.S. is backing Israeli operations against the Houthis, asserting that they would respond to Iran, the Houthis’ alleged backers.
Since President Trump’s administration, U.S. forces have conducted daily airstrikes to counter Houthi activities. U.S. Central Command stated that their campaign aims to undermine Houthi operations significantly, employing detailed intelligence for effective strikes.
Reportedly, these strikes have targeted command centers, air defense systems, and weapons facilities. The Central Command noted that Houthi attacks on U.S. ships have decreased, with a noted 69% reduction in ballistic missile launches and 55% fewer drone assaults.
The strikes have also impacted the Port of Ras Isa, hindering Houthi operations and diminishing revenue streams vital for their activities.
Iran’s ongoing support for the Houthis was highlighted as a factor enabling them to persist in attacking U.S. forces. The focus remains on increasing pressure until goals are achieved.
Since the onset of the war with Hamas in Gaza after the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, the Houthis have increased their missile assaults on Israel, affirming their role as part of Iran’s “axis of resistance.” While some of their missiles have been intercepted, a few have caused damage.
This recent missile hit at an airport marked a notable first since the escalation of tensions with Hamas. Initial reports suggested a possible technical failure with interception systems as a contributing factor.
Israeli emergency services reported minor injuries from the explosion; among them, four individuals were hurt, and two others sustained injuries during evacuation attempts.
As a result of the ongoing conflict, several international airlines have cancelled or postponed flights to Israel, following previous disruptions stemming from the Hamas conflict and the involvement of Hezbollah.
