Israel has issued an urgent evacuation warning for Sanaa International Airport following retaliatory airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed Monday’s attacks on Hodeidah Port—Yemen’s critical food import hub—and the Bajil cement factory, alleging both sites facilitated Iranian weapons transfers and tunnel construction for the Iran-backed militia.
The strikes came hours after a Houthi missile landed near Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, injuring six and prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to vow further retaliation.
Houthis Impose “Aerial Blockade” as Red Sea Tensions Mount
The Houthi health ministry reported 21 wounded in the Hodeidah strikes, which the group blamed on a U.S.-Israel coalition—a claim denied by Pentagon officials.
Yemen’s rebels escalated hostilities by declaring a “comprehensive aerial blockade” against Israel, targeting airports in response to Gaza operations.
The conflict has now crippled Hodeidah Port, which handles 80% of Yemen’s food imports, raising fears of a humanitarian crisis in the war-torn nation.
This marks Israel’s second strike on Sanaa Airport since December, part of an ongoing campaign against Houthi military and economic assets.
Analysts warn the attacks risk further destabilizing Red Sea shipping lanes already impacted by Houthi drone and missile threats. With Netanyahu promising continued operations, the violence shows no signs of abating as the regional tensions over Gaza spill into Yemen.
