Israel’s airstrike on Yemen’s Red Sea port of Al Hudaydah marks a significant shift in Jerusalem’s response to the more than 200 missiles and drones launched by the Houthis since October.
While Israel has chosen to ignore the Iran-backed Houthi attacks until now, it was a matter of time before the attacks caused casualties demanding a response.
The operation sent shockwaves through the region. The port of Al Hudaydah, a critical lifeline for the Houthis, was set ablaze, leading to widespread panic among residents. Eyewitnesses reported long lines at gas stations as people scrambled to fill their tanks amidst fears of further attacks. The flames and explosions from the burning port were broadcast across the Arab world.
Weapons warehouses were damaged, but striking 20 fuel depots also caught regional attention for two reasons. Targeting fuel underscores Israel’s strategic intent to disrupt and dismantle the Houthis’ support systems. It also sends a message to Tehran that Israel may also hit sensitive Iranian oil facilities.