Israeli Airstrikes Cause $500 Million Damage at Yemen's Sanaa Airport

Israeli airstrikes on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, controlled by Houthi forces, have caused approximately $500 million in damage, destroying terminal buildings, equipment, and several aircraft, with Yemenia Airways losing all but one plane. All flights to and from the airport have been suspended indefinitely, which is expected to increase hardship for Yemenis needing emergency medical treatment abroad and hamper the delivery of medical supplies. The strikes followed a Houthi missile attack near Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion airport and are part of ongoing hostilities between Israel and the Houthis, who have targeted shipping in the Red Sea in solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza conflict. At least seven people were reported killed and over 70 injured in the Israeli attacks on various targets in Yemen, according to Houthi authorities. Despite a US-Houthi ceasefire brokered by Oman to ensure Red Sea navigation, the agreement did not mention Israel, and the Houthis have vowed to retaliate for the strikes. The airport had only recently reopened for international flights after a six-year closure, primarily serving those needing urgent medical travel.