The strike in Yemen demonstrates Israel's capability to conduct long-range operations with surprise. Israel aims to exact a toll on the Houthis following their attacks since the war's outset, reportedly targeting civilian infrastructure as well as military sites after a drone hit buildings in Tel Aviv.
The IDF's initial statement mentioned strikes on "military targets," while Yemeni reports included a power station and fuel depots. According to Israel, the Houthis use the Hodeidah port for oil exports to fund terrorism, making it a legitimate target. This statement likely reflects an agreement with Washington, who seeks to prevent conflict escalation.
Tanker aircraft sighted off Eilat
In preparation for the strike, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke Friday, with the former asserting that Israel could not remain silent after the Tel Aviv attack.
Austin acknowledged the issue following a briefing from his staff, particularly in a letter revealed over the weekend from CENTCOM Commander General Michael Kurilla, who noted that despite numerous interceptions, offensive measures were necessary. Concerns about regional war have thus far prevented such actions.
The attacked Hodeidah port is strategically significant as it is nearly the sole lifeline for Houthi-controlled Yemen, providing their only major link for receiving and exporting goods. Humanitarian aid also flows through this port, making the Americans hesitant to strike it. The attack is expected to disrupt life in northwest Yemen, including the capital city of Sanaa.
Other parts of Yemen are controlled by the internationally recognized government, including the central port of Aden. The southeastern coast is controlled by tribes loyal to the UAE and even by ISIS, highlighting Hodeidah's importance to the Houthis.
As for Iran, it remains on the sidelines, although the IDF indicates a message in the strike, given the target's distance beyond parts of Iran. The Houthis do not coordinate every action with Tehran and have their own agenda. When the Americans and even the Chinese urged Iran to restrain the Houthis due to severe impacts on international trade, Iran claimed it did not control them.
Nonetheless, Iran significantly aids the Houthis with weaponry, especially for manufacturing drones. It is likely that today's strike also targeted drone-related sites.