Israel Conducts Airstrikes in Yemen Targeting Houthi Strongholds

On September 10, 2025, Israel conducted a series of airstrikes targeting Houthi-controlled regions in Yemen, including the capital city of Sanaa and the northern province of al-Jawf. The Israeli military stated that these operations aimed to dismantle Houthi military infrastructure, specifically military camps, a fuel storage facility, and the headquarters of the Houthis' military propaganda department. Houthi media reported several casualties resulting from the attacks. Witnesses indicated that the Houthi defense ministry and a command center situated between two mountains were among the targets.

According to Houthi officials, the airstrikes resulted in at least 35 fatalities and over 130 injuries. The attacks reportedly targeted civilian structures, including residential areas, a medical facility, and a government compound. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree claimed that the group used surface-to-air missiles against the Israeli incursion, asserting that some Israeli planes were turned back before they could discharge their weapons.

This escalation follows over a year of mutual attacks between Israel and the Iran-aligned Houthi group, which began amid the broader conflict stemming from the war in Gaza. The Houthis have launched drones and missiles toward Israel and attacked Red Sea vessels, claiming these actions support Palestinians. Most of their missile attacks have been intercepted, with Israel responding through ongoing strikes on Houthi-controlled areas, including the strategic port of Hodeidah.

In the days leading up to the September 10 airstrikes, an Israeli airstrike killed the Houthi-run government’s prime minister and other senior officials. The Houthis have launched drones and missiles toward Israel and attacked Red Sea vessels, claiming these actions support Palestinians. Most of their missile attacks have been intercepted, with Israel responding through ongoing strikes on Houthi-controlled areas, including the strategic port of Hodeidah.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to seek EU sanctions and partial trade suspension against Israel over its actions in Gaza. This move comes amid Israeli airstrikes that killed at least 35 people in Yemen following Houthi drone attacks on Israel. In Qatar, an Israeli strike targeting Hamas leaders killed five members and a Qatari security officer, drawing strong condemnation from Qatar and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Lebanese Hezbollah warned Gulf states of possible Israeli aggression, while accusations of regional destabilization emerged.

The recent airstrikes have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, a country already suffering from prolonged conflict and economic instability. The targeting of civilian infrastructure, such as medical facilities and residential areas, has raised concerns about the protection of non-combatants and adherence to international humanitarian law. The escalation also threatens to further destabilize the region, potentially leading to increased displacement and suffering among the civilian population.

The Israeli airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen represent a significant escalation in the Middle Eastern conflict, with far-reaching implications for regional stability and humanitarian conditions. As international actors respond to these developments, the path forward remains uncertain, underscoring the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and address the underlying causes of the conflict.