Israel Launches First Airstrike Since Ceasefire, Targeting Houthi Rebel Positions in Yemen

Yonhap News Agency

Israel has struck Houthi rebel positions in Yemen, which are backed by Iran, for the first time since the ceasefire with Iran.

According to reports from foreign media such as the Associated Press on July 7 (local time), the Israeli military carried out airstrikes early that morning on Hodeidah, Ras Issa, Salif Port, and the Ras Kanatib power plant, all located in western Yemen and under Houthi control. This is the first time Israel has directly targeted an Iranian "proxy force" since the ceasefire that followed its military clash with Iran.

The Israeli military issued a warning to the area 30 minutes before the airstrikes, after which more than 20 F-16 fighter jets took off and dropped over 50 bombs and missiles. The Israeli media outlet Times of Israel reported that the operation was conducted by fighter jets that took off from within Israel.

The Israeli military stated that among the targets was the cargo ship "Galaxy Leader," which the Houthis seized in November 2023 and converted for military use. According to Israel, the vessel was equipped with a radar system and was used to track ships in international waters and to support further terrorist attacks.

The Houthis immediately retaliated with missiles. The Israeli military reported that it intercepted two missiles launched from Yemen, and air raid warnings were issued in Jerusalem, Hebron, and cities near the Dead Sea. The Houthi side acknowledged the airstrikes in a statement but claimed, "Yemen's air defense network responded effectively."

Since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023, the Houthi rebels have repeatedly launched missile and suicide drone attacks against Israel, citing solidarity with Israel's adversaries. Although Iran and Israel agreed to a ceasefire last month after 12 days of military conflict, the Houthis have carried out at least three additional missile provocations against Israel since then.

The previous day, the Houthis also claimed to have struck Ben Gurion Airport in central Tel Aviv, but the Israeli military stated that the missile was intercepted by its air defense system.

Yoav Gallant, Israel's Minister of Defense, warned, "If the Houthis continue to threaten Israeli territory, they will face even stronger retaliation."