Israel Conducts Airstrikes on Houthi Ports in Yemen Retaliating Missile Attacks

Israel conducted a series of airstrikes targeting the Houthi-controlled ports of Hodeidah and Salif in Yemen, with some reports also mentioning strikes on Ras Isa, as retaliation for missile and drone attacks launched by the Iran-backed Houthis against Israel. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) described the ports as being used for transferring weapons and warned civilians to evacuate the areas prior to the strikes. These strikes involved dozens of Israeli Air Force aircraft, including fighter jets, refuelers, and spy planes, and aimed to damage the Houthis' military capabilities. The Houthis have fired multiple missiles and drones at Israel since the last IDF strike on May 6, expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza while reportedly halting attacks on U.S. ships. Despite the escalation, Israel's official comments on the strikes were limited, but the IDF confirmed the operations and reiterated warnings to civilians. The situation has raised concerns about the broader regional tensions and the exploitation of civilian infrastructure for military purposes by the Houthis.