Israel Conducts First Airstrike on Yemen Since Iran Ceasefire
In a significant escalation following the Iran-Israel ceasefire, Israeli warplanes carried out major airstrikes on key targets in Yemen, including strategic ports and a power facility located along the Red Sea.
According to international media sources, loud explosions were reported around Hodeidah Port, which is under Houthi control. The strikes are the first of their kind since the cessation of hostilities between Iran and Israel.
Targeted Locations: Ports and Power Plant
The airstrikes focused on several Houthi-controlled locations along Yemen’s western coastline:
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Hodeidah Port
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Ras Isa Terminal
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Salif Port
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Ras Kaynath Power Plant
One of the targets was a cargo ship that the Houthis had seized in November 2023. Israeli sources claim the ship was being used for arms transport, while Houthi officials allege the vessel had been docked for humanitarian purposes.
Houthi Retaliation: Ballistic Missile Fired at Central Israel
In response to the airstrikes, a Houthi military spokesperson announced that the group fired a ballistic missile targeting Jaffa, a central region in Israel. The missile reportedly aimed at a military installation, though no casualties have been confirmed.
The attack underscores the increasing regional spillover of the Gaza-Israel conflict, especially involving Iranian-backed groups.
Gaza Ceasefire Talks in Qatar: First Round Ends Without Progress
Meanwhile, the first round of ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas in Qatar has ended without any breakthrough, according to Palestinian sources.
Officials stated that the Israeli delegation lacked the authority to finalize a binding agreement, making meaningful negotiations difficult.
This round of talks took place a day before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, where he is expected to meet former U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss broader regional security, including Gaza, Iran, and Hezbollah.
Netanyahu’s Statement Before Departure
Speaking ahead of his U.S. trip, Netanyahu confirmed that an Israeli negotiating team was dispatched to Qatar, but emphasized:
“Any ceasefire agreement must meet the conditions acceptable to Israel.”
This suggests that Israel remains firm on its core demands, likely including the return of hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, and long-term security guarantees.