21-12-2024 (JERUSALEM) Israel has mounted an extensive aerial campaign against Houthi targets in Yemen, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserting that these operations serve not only Israeli interests but protect global maritime security.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) conducted a series of sophisticated strikes early Thursday, deploying fourteen fighter aircraft supported by refuelling and reconnaissance planes over a 2,000-kilometre range. The operation, which targeted multiple strategic locations including the rebel-held capital Sana’a, marks a notable intensification in Israel’s response to Houthi aggression.
Speaking in a recorded statement, Netanyahu emphasised the broader implications of the conflict. “These actions protect international shipping lanes and global trade routes,” he stated, highlighting the Houthis’ role in disrupting maritime commerce.
Military sources report the strikes specifically targeted critical infrastructure, including fuel repositories, power facilities, and maritime equipment at Houthi-controlled ports. The IDF claims to have effectively paralysed operations at all three major Houthi-held ports, striking eight tugboats essential for naval operations.
Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning to the Yemeni rebel group: “Any aggression against Israel will be met with severe consequences.” This statement follows the Houthis’ launch of approximately 200 missiles and 170 drones towards Israeli territory over the past year.
The timing of the operation proved particularly notable, as Israeli aircraft were already airborne when the Houthis launched a ballistic missile towards Israel. The projectile, partially intercepted by the Arrow defence system, caused significant damage to an unoccupied school in Ramat Gan, though no casualties were reported.
The Houthi movement, which began targeting Israel following the October 7 Hamas attack, has disrupted approximately 100 merchant vessels in the Red Sea, forcing major shipping companies to seek alternative routes and significantly impacting global trade.
Military analysts note that this marks Israel’s third counter-offensive against Houthi positions, coinciding with recent American strikes on rebel facilities in Sana’a. The coordinated international response reflects growing concern over the security of vital maritime corridors and regional stability.
