26 Dec 2024 | 03:06 PM UTC
Yemen: Israel reportedly targets Sana'a International Airport (SAH) and power station in Al-Hudaydah Dec. 26
Israeli airstrikes reportedly target infrastructure in Sana'a and Al-Hudaydah, Yemen, Dec. 26. Further cross-border attacks likely.
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reportedly launched a series of airstrikes targeting Sana'a International Airport (SAH), in the Al-Houthis-controlled capital of Yemen, on Dec. 26. Reports indicate that the airstrikes hit the tower of the airport. Additional reports indicate that the Al-Dailami base in Sana'a and a power station in Al-Hudaydah were also targeted. There is no official report of casualties or damages. The IDF did not immediately confirm the airstrikes.
The airstrikes reportedly occurred during a speech by Al-Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi. This latest series of airstrikes comes as tensions have escalated between Yemen-based Al-Houthis and Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israel would "act with force" after the Al-Houthis claimed responsibility for several missiles intercepted by the IDF in the past few days.
Emergency service personnel will likely deploy to targeted areas. Heightened security and disruptions to transport and business are probable over the coming hours. Air travel disruptions at SAH are likely in the coming days as authorities assess the airport's damages. Further airstrikes and retaliatory Al-Houthi attacks are possible in the short term.
Avoid SAH until the authorities give the all-clear. Lingering air travel disruptions are likely. If operating in Yemen, exercise caution and avoid Al-Houthi military sites and concentrations of security personnel. If airstrikes are reported in your general vicinity, take cover in the nearest shelter and remain there until given further instructions by authorities. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.
The Al-Houthis, which control most of northern Yemen, are allied with Iran. The group has been targeting commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Mediterranean Sea since the Israel-Hamas conflict began in October 2023. As part of their solidarity campaign with Hamas, the Al-Houthis have also been launching projectiles into Israel. Since November 2024, the Al-Houthis have increased their attacks against Israel.
