A wave of Israeli airstrikes has left a deadly mark on the Yemeni capital of Sanaa, with Houthi officials reporting at least six killed and 86 wounded. The attack represents Israel’s fierce retaliation for a Houthi missile attack that reportedly carried a cluster bomb warhead, a move Israel considered a grave provocation.
The Israeli Air Force targeted critical infrastructure, aiming to cripple the Houthis’ operational capacity. A fuel depot and two power stations were struck, along with a military compound that is home to the presidential palace. Explosions rocked the city, with a large fireball and a plume of black smoke marking the impact sites.
Israeli leaders were unequivocal about their intentions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned the “Houthi terrorist regime” that it is paying a “very heavy price” for its aggression. He underscored Israel’s readiness to pre-emptively strike any group that plans to harm its security.
The strikes have intensified the volatile situation in the region, with Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz claiming the destruction of the Houthi presidential palace. While this claim is yet to be confirmed, the message is clear: Israel will respond with overwhelming force to any threats emanating from the Iran-backed group.