The Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV has reported that the Ras Isa oil port in Yemen’s Hodeidah district was hit by seven US airstrikes recently. This follows a deadly strike at the same location last month, which resulted in at least 80 deaths and over 150 injuries, marking one of the most lethal attacks by US forces in the region.
On the same day, the Houthis claimed to have launched two missiles targeting northern Israel, specifically the Ramat David military airbase and the Tel Aviv area. This move is part of their ongoing military efforts to support Palestinians amid ongoing violence in Gaza.
The Israeli military responded by intercepting the first missile and attempted to intercept the second one. Although alarms were activated in several areas, officials reported no injuries or damage. The outcome of the second missile interception is still being assessed.
Yahya Saree, the Houthi spokesperson, stated that they used hypersonic missiles in their operation against significant Israeli military targets. The group has asserted that their attacks on Israel, as well as on US and British vessels in the Red Sea, will continue until Israel agrees to a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
The Houthis had paused their attacks during a ceasefire earlier this year but resumed after Israel blocked aid to Gaza and escalated military actions.
As the US increases its military presence in Yemen, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced an extension of the USS Harry S Truman’s deployment in the Middle East for another week. This ensures that two carrier strike groups remain active in the area.
Since March, the US has intensified its operations in Yemen, targeting not only infrastructure but also individuals connected to the Houthi leadership. Civilian casualties are rising, with reports from the UK-based monitor Airwars estimating between 27 and 55 civilian deaths in March, with April’s toll likely higher.
Recent strikes have drawn criticism from rights advocates. On Monday, a US airstrike killed at least 68 people among detained African migrants, with additional casualties reported around the capital, Sanaa. Three Democratic senators have urged the Pentagon for clarity on civilian casualties resulting from these strikes.
The United Nations has expressed concern over the increasing civilian death toll, calling on all parties involved to adhere to international humanitarian law and prioritize the protection of civilians.