Israel Launches Military Strikes in Yemen After Houthi Drone Attack on Tel Aviv

Israeli air strikes on Saturday reportedly targeted oil storage facilities in the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah, resulting in an unspecified number of fatalities and injuries, according to Houthi-run media. This military action follows a drone attack claimed by the Houthis on Tel Aviv, which resulted in one death and occurred near a U.S. Embassy branch. Houthi political bureau member Mohammed al-Bukhaiti asserted that such strikes 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 not alter the Houthis' commitment to supporting Gaza, suggesting that the attacks would likely escalate further. The recent exchanges mark a significant development, as this is the first instance of Israeli strikes within Yemen, following the Houthis' drone assault on Tel Aviv. The ongoing conflict risks opening a new front in an already volatile regional situation, with Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam declaring the current state as “open war.” The Houthis, believed to be armed and trained by Iran, have intensified their military operations in solidarity with Gaza since the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. In response, the U.S. and U.K. have conducted strikes on Houthi targets. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the attacks demonstrate Israel's reach and commitment to national security, while Houthi leaders have vowed to continue their military efforts against Israel, indicating a prolonged conflict ahead.