Israeli Airstrikes Hit Yemen’s Capital Sanaa After Houthi Missile Attack

Israeli airstrikes struck multiple sites in Yemen’s capital city Sanaa on Sunday following a Houthi-launched missile toward Israel that reportedly carried cluster munitions, according to a report published by The Associated Press.

In a first such assault since 2023, the attacks targetted the Asar and Hizaz power plants, which are believed to be key to carrying out military operations, and a military area near the presidential palace, news agency Reuters reported. 

At least two people were killed and 35 others were injured, according to the Houthi-run health ministry. 

Meanwhile, video footage of a fiery blast at an oil facility — broadcast by Al-Masirah and subsequently circulated online — underlined the impact of the operation.

Eyewitnesses recalled the ordeal and described a terrifying scene.

A resident living close to the presidential palace, told AP, “The sounds of explosions were very strong” even as another added that his house was rocked, and the windows were shattered.

Israel Responds to the First Houthi Cluster-Bomb Attack

The Israeli military, meanwhile, confirmed that the strikes targetted military infrastructure and energy facilities considered key to Houthi operations. 

Notably, the latest airstrikes came just days after the Houthi group fired a ballistic missile toward Israel, equipped with multiple sub-munitions.  

Houthis Vow to Keep Fighting

Despite the damage, Houthi leadership, for its part, remained defiant, with Nasruddin Amer, deputy head of their media office, asserting that the group’s determination hasn’t shaken.

“Our military operations supporting Gaza won’t stop, God willing, unless the aggression is stopped, and the siege is lifted,” Amer reportedly said.

Sunday’s development marks the first Israeli strike on Yemen in about a week, following earlier attacks on Houthi-controlled energy sites south of Sanaa, according to Reuters.

A Conflict with Broader Fallout

For over 22 months, the Iran-aligned Houthis have launched drones and missiles in attacks on Red Sea shipping, in solidarity with the Palestinians amid the Gaza war. Their operations have — in the recent past — disrupted a key global trade corridor and evoked strong international responses, all while raising concerns over rising regional instability.

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