Israeli Military Conducts Airstrikes On Yemen's Capital Sanaa Following Houthi Missile Launches

The Israeli military has launched airstrikes on Yemen's capital, Sanaa, targeting an oil facility and a power plant, as confirmed by both Israeli and Yemeni officials. The Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV reported that the attack also included a strike on a presidential palace, which Israel claims is part of a "military complex." This escalation follows the Houthis' recent missile launch against Israel.

Escalating Tensions in the Region

At least two individuals lost their lives, and 35 others sustained injuries due to these attacks, according to Al Masirah. The Israeli military stated that these strikes were in retaliation for repeated assaults by the Houthi regime on Israel, including missile and drone launches. The Houthis have vowed to continue their support for Gaza despite these attacks.

Footage verified by Al Jazeera depicted flames and smoke rising over Sanaa following the strikes. A Houthi military official claimed their air defences managed to "neutralise most of the Israeli enemy aircraft," forcing them to retreat. The Houthis remain resolute in their stance against Israel's actions.

Houthi Response and Allegations

Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a Houthi official, stated that Israeli aggression would not deter their support for Palestinians. He emphasised their commitment with the words: "The issue is settled for us: either eternity in heaven or eternity in hell." Abed al-Thawr from the Houthi Defence Ministry dismissed Israel's claims of targeting military sites as falsehoods.

Al-Thawr told Al Jazeera that the presidential palace struck had been abandoned long ago. He described Israel's actions as barbaric, accusing them of targeting civilian infrastructure to inflict suffering on Yemenis. The Government of Change and Reconstruction in Sanaa condemned the attack as a "war crime."

Continued Conflict and International Reactions

The Yemeni government accused Israel of trying to create a "fake victory" by showcasing smoke columns above Sanaa. They alleged that with American backing, Israel is waging an open war against Arab and Muslim nations. For over a month, Israel has been bombing Yemeni power plants and ports.

Last week, an Israeli naval strike hit a power station in Sanaa. On Friday, the Houthis announced they had launched a hypersonic missile and two drones at Israel. They reiterated their commitment to stand with Palestinians until aggression against Gaza ceases and the siege is lifted.

The situation remains tense as both sides continue to exchange hostilities amidst calls for international intervention to de-escalate the conflict.