Israel Strikes Three Ports and Power Plant in Yemen Following Houthi Attack in Red Sea

Israel Strikes Three Ports and Power Plant in Yemen Following Houthi Attack in Red Sea
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A commercial cargo ship, Magic Seas, flying the Liberian flag and operated by a Greek company, was attacked on Sunday in the Red Sea about 100 kilometers southwest of the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeidah, Yemen, Khaama Press reported.

The vessel was targeted by eight fast Houthi boats, two of which conducted suicide attacks using explosive-laden boats, while others engaged with small arms and RPG fire. The crew abandoned the ship after it caught fire. This marked the first major maritime assault since the ceasefire agreement between the Houthis and the United States.

In retaliation, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced extensive Israeli airstrikes on Houthi targets, hitting three ports—Hudaydah, Ras Isa, and Salif—and a power station in Yemen. A previously seized vessel was also targeted. Katz warned that Yemen would be treated like Tehran and vowed heavy consequences for attempts to harm Israel.

The escalation highlights concerns over Iranian-backed Houthi efforts to destabilize Red Sea maritime trade. Yemeni Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani accused Iran of supplying the Houthis with missiles, drones, naval mines, and advanced military technology. Analysts warn the attack signals the Houthis’ continued capacity to disrupt regional stability amid ongoing diplomatic efforts for ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. The Red Sea remains a critical global shipping route, making these attacks a significant threat to international economic security.