Israel launched airstrikes on Yemen’s Hodeidah port on Tuesday, hitting Houthi positions in a move that could escalate regional tensions. The attacks on the Hodeidah port, a key maritime hub, mark a sharp warning from Israel, which now threatens a full naval and air blockade if the Houthi attacks continue.
Port Facilities Hit in New Strikes
Israeli naval forces confirmed targeting Houthi infrastructure at Hodeidah. According to Houthi-run Al Masirah TV, two airstrikes hit dock facilities. Israel claims the port has been used by the Houthis to transfer weapons. There were no immediate reports of casualties.
Evacuation Demands and Blockade Threat
A day earlier, Israel called for the evacuation of three Houthi-controlled ports—Ras Isa, Hodeidah, and Salif. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated, “If Houthi attacks persist, they will face a powerful response and a total naval and aerial blockade.”
Security firm Ambrey reported no damage to merchant vessels but urged ships in the area to restrict crew movement and reduce bridge manning for safety.
Read: Israeli Strike Kills Journalists and Medics in Gaza Amid Global Outcry
Context of Houthi Attacks
Since the beginning of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, the Iran-aligned Houthis have launched missiles and drones at Israel and commercial shipping in the Red Sea. These attacks, aimed at showing solidarity with Palestinians, have disrupted global trade routes.
While most Houthi projectiles have been intercepted or missed their targets, Israel has consistently responded with airstrikes.
Houthi Resilience and Regional Dynamics
Despite years of Saudi-led airstrikes during Yemen’s civil war, the Houthis remain resilient. Under leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi, the group evolved from a small mountain militia into a well-equipped force with drones and ballistic missiles.
Israel has weakened several Iranian allies in the region, including Hamas and Hezbollah. However, groups like the Houthis and pro-Iran militias in Iraq still pose a threat.
The Houthis continue to deny direct arms support from Iran, though Saudi Arabia and Western powers argue otherwise. The conflict around Hodeidah port signals further instability in the Red Sea region.
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