In a significant escalation of military actions in the region, Israeli forces conducted airstrikes on Yemen’s Ras Isa Port on Sunday, targeting oil facilities and power stations controlled by Houthi rebels. This military operation was a direct response to recent Houthi missile attacks, including one aimed at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv.
Newly surfaced footage circulating on social media vividly depicts the aftermath of the airstrikes, showcasing oil tanks at the port engulfed in flames with thick black smoke billowing into the sky. The caption accompanying the video states, “When an oil tank exploded inside the port of Hudaidah in Yemen; As a result of bombing by @Israel.”
Casualties and Damage
Reports from Houthi-controlled Al-Masirah TV indicate that the airstrikes resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including a port employee and three engineers, with over 30 others injured. Rescue operations are currently underway as emergency teams respond to the devastation.
Eyewitnesses have described the scene, noting that plumes of smoke and fire erupted from the oil tanks struck by Israeli missiles, which also hit power stations in the vicinity. The Israeli military confirmed that a large-scale operation was carried out, involving dozens of aircraft, including fighter jets, refueling planes, and reconnaissance aircraft.
Military Justification
Israeli military spokesperson Captain David Avraham stated, “Today’s operation was a significant escalation in our response to the Houthi threat. We will not tolerate attacks on Israeli territory, and we will take all necessary measures to protect our citizens.” According to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), the airstrikes aimed to dismantle power plants and a seaport utilized by the Houthi regime for oil imports and the transfer of Iranian weapons and military supplies.
These facilities were reportedly integral to the Houthis’ ongoing military campaign, which has been backed by Iran and collaborated with Iraqi militias. The latest airstrikes are part of a broader regional military offensive by Israel, which has intensified over recent weeks.
Last week, Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 people and displaced hundreds of thousands. Additionally, Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza, which began on October 7 last year, has led to the deaths of over 42,000 Palestinians and has displaced nearly the entire population of the narrow strip.
Sources By Agecies
