Israel Launches Overnight Strikes on Yemen’s Hodeidah Port, Threatens Full Blockade
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Israeli forces targeted Hodeidah port, a critical hub for humanitarian aid, alleging Houthi weapon transfers.
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Strikes hit two piers; no casualties reported.
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Israel warns of an impending “aerial and naval blockade” if Houthi attacks persist.
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Houthis claim solidarity with Gaza, firing missiles at Israel amid ongoing conflict.
Overnight, Israel launched missile strikes on Hodeidah, Yemen’s lifeline for food and aid, accusing Houthi rebels of using the port for Iran-backed arms smuggling. The attack damaged two piers but caused no reported deaths.
This comes just hours after Houthis fired a missile toward Israel (which failed to reach its target). Since the Gaza war began, the Iran-aligned group has repeatedly attacked Israel in “support of Palestinians.”
Israel’s Ultimatum: Stop Attacks or Face Blockade
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning on X (Twitter):
“We warned the Houthi terror organization—continue firing at Israel, and you’ll face a devastating response, including a full naval and aerial blockade.”
This threat mirrors Israel’s blockade on Gaza, which has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, with the UN calling it the “hungriest place on earth.”
Why Hodeidah Matters
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Vital Aid Gateway: Over 70% of Yemen’s imports, including food and medicine, pass through Hodeidah.
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War-Torn Yemen: Since 2014, Yemen has been devastated by conflict, with millions relying on this port for survival.
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Previous Strikes: Israel bombed Hodeidah in May, alleging Houthi weapon shipments.
Houthis vs. Israel & US: A Growing Conflict
The Houthis have spent two years attacking Red Sea shipping, disrupting global trade. In response:
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US Airstrikes: Hundreds of U.S. strikes in Yemen killed 250+ people before a May ceasefire.
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Ceasefire Fallout: The truce surprised Israel, leading PM Netanyahu to vow: “We’ll defend ourselves alone.”
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Houthi attacks continue, Israel may enforce a full blockade, worsening Yemen’s crisis.
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The US-Israel-Houthi tension risks further escalation, with global trade and aid at stake.
Stay tuned for updates as tensions rise in the Red Sea.
