In a dramatic expansion of the regional conflict, Israel has launched its first airstrikes against Yemen’s Houthi movement following its recent ceasefire with Iran targeting key Red Sea infrastructure in a bold military maneuver. The strikes come amid escalating Houthi maritime aggression, which saw a Greek cargo vessel destroyed in the Red Sea just hours later.
According to U.S. media reports, the Israeli military struck vital installations in Yemen’s western coastal region, including the strategic ports of Hudaydah, Al-Salif, and Ras Isa, as well as a power generation facility. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant confirmed the attacks, framing them as preemptive measures to curtail Houthi threats to maritime security and regional stability.
While no immediate casualties were reported, the strikes sparked strong condemnation from the Houthis. Mohammed Al-Farhah, senior member of the group’s political bureau, decried the targeting of civilian infrastructure. “Striking Yemen’s ports, power plants, and public services is a calculated assault on innocent civilians and has no bearing on military objectives. This is state terrorism,” he stated.
The move marks a significant shift in Israel’s military posture in the region, opening a new front in its ongoing campaign against Iran-aligned militant factions. Since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war, Houthi forces have launched persistent missile, drone, and rocket attacks against Israeli territory, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
In a retaliatory show of force, the Houthis intensified their maritime operations. A Greek-owned cargo vessel was struck and destroyed in the Red Sea—a critical global shipping lane. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the incident, adding that all crew members were safely evacuated.
The rapid escalation underscores the widening regional fallout from the Gaza conflict and the deepening entanglement of international actors. With Israel now actively engaging the Houthis, concerns are mounting over the security of commercial shipping and the broader implications for Middle East stability.
Analysts warn that the opening of a Yemeni front may provoke further confrontation with Iran-backed groups across the region, potentially dragging the Red Sea and surrounding waters into a prolonged conflict with global ramifications.
