Sanaa, Yemen — The Israeli military has declared that it has “fully disabled” Yemen’s primary airport in Sanaa, currently under Houthi control. Recent airstrikes targeted multiple civilian aircraft, the airport’s departures terminal, the runway, and a military air base, according to local sources. An official stated that the facility has been “completely destroyed,” marking a significant escalation in the conflict.

Reports indicate that at least three fatalities resulted from the attacks, with the Houthis pledging a response to what they described as an act of aggression. This military action followed closely on the heels of a missile fired by the Iran-backed Houthis that landed near Israel’s main airport, momentarily halting operations there.

In retaliation for the missile attack, Israel initiated airstrikes on the port city of Hudaydah, followed by operations targeting Sanaa airport the next day. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized accountability, stating that those who threaten Israel must face consequences for their actions. He asserted that Israel’s military decisions are calculated and targeted.

A Houthi political leader condemned the Israeli assault as a failure, characterizing it as “failed terrorism.” He warned that support for Gaza remains strong and hinted at significant repercussions for Netanyahu’s government.

Airport officials confirmed that three aircraft belonging to Yemenia Airlines were destroyed in the recent strikes. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated their objective was to incapacitate the airport, alleging it was being used by the Houthis for weapons and personnel transfers. Additionally, significant damage was inflicted on the power supply infrastructure, further crippling the group’s operational capabilities.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a halt to American military strikes against the Houthis, citing their willingness to cease hostilities. He mentioned an agreement for a ceasefire that would allow for safe passage of commercial shipping, an important detail considering the ongoing maritime tensions.

This military escalation marks a series of recent confrontations, including a previous strike on Hudaydah, a vital port that handles approximately 80% of Yemen’s food imports. The Houthis reported at least four fatalities and 35 injuries resulting from the Hudaydah attack, which they attribute to a coalition effort involving the U.S. despite a U.S. defense official dismissing this assertion.

The missile targeting Israel’s major airport caused minor injuries to six individuals, underscoring the escalating regional tensions. Following this incident, the Houthis vowed to implement a comprehensive aerial blockade on Israel, indicating their intent to retaliate against any further expansions of military operations in Gaza.

This cycle of violence is not new; Israel has previously conducted strikes against Houthi positions, including targeting power plants and ports in earlier months. The broader implications of these renewed hostilities raise questions about regional stability and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen, where conflict has ravaged the nation for years.

As the situation develops, both military and diplomatic maneuvers are likely to continue shaping the landscape of the ongoing conflict, with the potential for heightened tensions across the region.