Israel Conducts Airstrike on Sanaa International Airport Amid Escalating Tensions

An airstrike by Israel hit Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, following prior strikes in Hudaydah and a missile landing near Israel's main airport. The Houthi group, affected by the attacks, claimed US involvement and promised retaliation against Israel's expanded military operations.

Israeli airstrikes intensified this week with a targeted attack on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen's capital, Sanaa. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the strike, having earlier warned civilians to evacuate the airport due to the looming threat. This incident follows a barrage of strikes directed at the Iran-backed Houthi group and occurred just a day after Israeli actions took aim at targets in Hudaydah, where a missile fired by the Houthis had landed near Israel's Ben Gurion airport.

The IDF asserted that the recent airstrikes were necessary to disrupt Houthi operations, targeting facilities such as the Hudaydah port— a strategic point for approximately 80% of Yemen’s food imports— and the Bajil cement factory, both seen as crucial for sustaining Houthi military capabilities. The Houthis reported at least 21 injuries resulting from the Sanaa airport attack and accused the US and Israel of coordination in their military endeavors. However, a US defense official stated that American forces were not involved in these strikes.

The escalating tension has led the Houthis to declare plans for a "comprehensive aerial blockade" on Israel, in retaliation for their ongoing military actions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue strikes against the Houthi rebels, underscoring that their attacks would elicit further responses. The cycle of violence shows no signs of abating, as both sides intensify military engagements.