Israeli navy strikes Houthi-controlled Hodeidah port in Yemen

The Israeli navy targeted the Houthi-controlled Hodeidah Port in Yemen early this morning, marking the first naval assault by warships against the group since October 7.

A statement from the Israeli military indicated that the strike was a response to repeated missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacks launched by the Houthis against Israeli territory. The statement alleged that Hodeidah Port is a “center for weapons transfers” and argued that the attack’s goal was to prevent the port’s use for military purposes.

Recalling that the port was also targeted by Israel last year, the announcement added, “The port continues to be used for terrorist purposes.” It was specified that the attack aimed to deepen the destruction at Hodeidah Port.

Following the naval assault, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared, “Israel’s long arm in the air and at sea will reach everywhere. We have warned the Houthis that if they continue to attack Israel, we will respond forcefully and place them under a sea and air blockade.”

Nasreddin Amir, a senior Houthi official, confirmed the attack in a post on X, stating that Israeli naval units had targeted the port in Hodeidah with two missiles.

The Houthis in Yemen have periodically targeted Israel with ballistic missiles since it resumed intense attacks on the Gaza Strip, breaking a ceasefire agreement. The group launched another missile toward Israel yesterday; however, it fell before reaching its target, and no sirens were activated. The last time sirens were triggered was last Thursday.

After October 7, the Houthis were also subjected to joint attacks by the US and the United Kingdom. However, US President Joe Biden, after taking office, first increased the intensity of attacks against the Houthis and then declared a ceasefire without informing Israel.