Israeli Airstrikes Target Houthi Positions in Yemen's Capital

Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple locations in Sanaa, Yemen's capital, on Sunday, resulting in at least two deaths and 35 injuries, according to the Houthi-run health ministry. The strikes came days after Houthi rebels launched a missile toward Israel, described by the Israeli military as the first cluster bomb used against it since 2023.

The Israeli military stated that the airstrikes hit the Asar and Hizaz power plants, which they identified as significant electricity supply facilities for military activities, as well as a military site housing the presidential palace. Residents reported loud explosions near a closed military academy and the presidential palace, with plumes of smoke visible near Sabeen Square.

Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree stated that the group had launched two hypersonic ballistic missiles at sensitive military targets in the Tel Aviv area, claiming the operation had successfully achieved its objectives. He added that the Israeli aggression would not deter Yemen and the Yemenis from performing their religious and moral duty in responding to its massacres in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on the situation, stating, "After Hamas, Hezbollah and the Assad regime in Syria, the Houthis are almost the last remaining arm of Iran’s axis of evil. They are learning and they will learn the hard way, that whoever harms Israel pays a very heavy price for it."

The Houthis have been launching missiles and drones toward Israel and targeting ships in the Red Sea for over 22 months, citing support for Palestinians amid the conflict in Gaza. These actions have disrupted global maritime trade, with the Red Sea being a crucial passage for approximately $1 trillion worth of goods annually.

In response to the escalating threats, Israel has conducted multiple airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, including previous attacks on energy infrastructure and ports. The Israeli military has emphasized the evolving nature of the threat, highlighting the use of cluster munitions by the Houthis, which complicates interception efforts and suggests the provision of advanced technology by Iran.

The recent exchange of attacks underscores the ongoing volatility in the region, with both parties indicating a readiness to continue their respective military operations.