Israel Launches Air Strikes on Yemen, Targets Ports and Power Plant

The Israeli military has launched a series of air strikes on Yemen, targeting key infrastructure including the ports of Hodeidah, Salif, and Ras Issa, the Ras al-Kesib power plant, and the Houthi-operated ship Galaxy Leader. The strikes, part of an operation dubbed “Black Flag,” were carried out by dozens of Israeli warplanes, according to Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz.

Israeli Defense Minister’s Statement
Katz, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stated, “The law in Yemen is the same as the law in Tehran,” emphasizing that the Houthis would “continue to pay a heavy price for their actions.” The Israeli military claimed that the targeted ports were being used to transport weapons from Iran, while the power plant was allegedly supporting military activities.

Yemen’s Retaliation
Shortly after the Israeli strikes, Yemen launched two missiles toward Israel, triggering air raid sirens in the Dead Sea region and the occupied West Bank. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that they attempted to intercept the missiles, but no casualties or damage were reported.

Context of the Conflict
The strikes come amid escalating tensions between Israel and the Houthi movement in Yemen, which has been involved in the ongoing conflict in the region. The Houthis have previously targeted Israeli interests, including the seizure of the Galaxy Leader ship in November 2023, which they claimed was linked to Israel.

Ongoing Investigations
The IDF has urged residents to remain vigilant and is investigating the details of the missile launches. Emergency services confirmed that there were no casualties or injuries from the missile strikes.