Sanaa, Yemen – The Middle East edged closer to a broader conflict on Sunday as Israeli fighter jets struck multiple sites in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, targeting Iran-backed Houthi forces. According to the Houthi-run health ministry, the strikes left at least six people dead and more than 80 injured, including 20 in critical condition.
A Targeted but Widening Military Campaign
Israeli officials confirmed that the airstrikes were retaliation for a Houthi ballistic missile launched toward Israel two days earlier. The missile, reportedly carrying a cluster warhead, was mostly intercepted, but the Israeli military characterized it as a significant escalation in the Houthis’ weapons capabilities.
The strikes reportedly hit several locations, including a military compound near the presidential palace, two power stations, and a fuel depot. While Israel insists the targets were military in nature, Houthi leaders accused Israel of deliberately attacking civilian infrastructure.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the action, warning, “The terrorist Houthi regime is learning the hard way that it will pay a very high price for its aggression against the State of Israel.”
Houthis Frame Attacks as Solidarity With Gaza
Since the Gaza war erupted, Houthi forces have repeatedly fired missiles and drones toward Israel, claiming the strikes are in solidarity with Palestinians. Although most attacks have been intercepted, their growing sophistication has alarmed Israeli defense planners.
“Houthi weapons have become more advanced, with longer range and heavier payloads,” said Dr. Rania Khalil, a security analyst at the Middle East Policy Institute. “This is no longer a symbolic show of support for Gaza. It’s a developing second front that could stretch Israel’s defenses.”
Houthi officials have vowed to continue their attacks. “Our operations will not stop,” said a spokesperson for the group. “We will continue to support our brothers in Gaza, no matter the sacrifices.”
Regional Implications and Risks of a Broader War
Military analysts say the exchange underscores the risk of the Gaza conflict spiraling into a multi-front confrontation. Iran’s backing of the Houthis has already drawn condemnation from Western governments, and regional powers are watching closely for signs of escalation.
“This is a dangerous moment,” said retired Brig. Gen. Eli Navon, formerly with the Israeli Air Force. “Israel is fighting Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah tensions are simmering in Lebanon, and now the Houthis are pushing the envelope from Yemen. Any miscalculation could trigger a chain reaction.”
Neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have condemned the violence and warned of destabilization in a region already facing complex conflicts. Humanitarian organizations have also raised alarms, noting that Yemen remains one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
Humanitarian Fallout and Civilian Impact
Sunday’s strikes also affected essential services in Sanaa. Reports suggest power outages and damage to fuel supplies. Aid agencies are concerned the strikes could exacerbate an already fragile situation.
“The Yemeni population is paying the price for geopolitical struggles,” said Amal Hussein, a regional coordinator for an international relief organization. “Food insecurity, fuel shortages, and disrupted health services are worsening. Any escalation could be catastrophic for civilians.”
Looking Ahead
As tensions mount, both sides show no sign of backing down. Israel has signaled readiness for further operations, while Houthi leaders continue to pledge resistance. Analysts warn that without diplomatic intervention, the risk of a wider regional war remains high.
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