Israel Strikes Houthi Targets in Yemen After Drone Attack

Israeli air strikes on Saturday targeted oil storage facilities in the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries, according to Houthi-run media. This military action follows a drone attack claimed by the Houthis that struck near a U.S. Embassy branch in Tel Aviv, killing one person. Houthi political bureau member Mohammed al-Bukhaiti asserted that such Israeli actions would not deter their military support for the Palestinian cause, warning of increased retaliation until the conflict in Gaza concludes. Military analyst Elijah Magnier emphasized that the Israeli strikes would likely not alter the Houthis' course of action, as they are motivated to support Gaza. He noted that the recent events provide the Houthis with a "perfect reason" to escalate their attacks, suggesting that the situation is far from resolved. The Houthi leadership condemned the Israeli strikes as "brutal aggression" against Yemen, with reports indicating that three individuals were killed and over 80 injured. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the air strikes, stating they were a response to ongoing Houthi drone and missile attacks targeting Israel. The IDF described the operation, codenamed "Outstretched Arm," as a necessary measure to protect Israeli citizens. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel's commitment to self-defense, asserting that the strikes demonstrate the reach of Israeli military capabilities. In a notable shift, this marks the first direct Israeli response to Houthi attacks, although the U.S. and U.K. have previously conducted air strikes against the group to safeguard commercial shipping in the region. The Houthi Supreme Political Council has vowed an "effective response" to the Israeli air strikes, indicating a potential escalation in the ongoing conflict.