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Israel has carried out extensive attacks on Houthi-controlled ports in Yemen. On Friday (May 16, 2025), the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed in a statement that the strikes targeted and destroyed infrastructure at the Hodeida and As-Salif ports in response to missile and drone attacks by the Houthis. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened to launch further attacks.
According to the IDF, dozens of warplanes, including fighter jets, refuelers, and intelligence aircraft, participated in the operation. The IDF claimed that these ports were being used for weapons transfers and terrorist activities. Israel had previously targeted these ports and Sanaa’s international airport in Yemen. The IDF stated that the strikes aimed to further degrade the Houthis’ terrorist capabilities.
A source from the Israeli military revealed to Army Radio that the strikes were planned after U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East visit concluded. Following Israeli attacks in Yemen on May 6, the Houthis fired at least seven missiles and two drones targeting Israel.
Addressing the Houthis, Netanyahu warned, “This is just the beginning. We will not sit idly by. We will strike their leaders and destroy the infrastructure that enables their attacks.” The IDF stated that the damage caused to the ports in these attacks would take a month to repair.
AI/MR
