Israeli airstrikes hit Yemens capital, targeting Iran-backed Houthis

Published: Sunday, August 24, 2025 at 5:11 pm

Israeli Airstrikes Target Houthi-Controlled Areas in Yemen

Sanaa, Yemen – Recent Israeli airstrikes have targeted areas within Yemen's capital, Sanaa, controlled by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. According to reports from the rebels' Al-Masirah satellite television, one strike hit an oil company, with social media footage depicting a resulting fireball.

The Israeli military confirmed the attacks, stating that they targeted the Asar and Hizaz power plants, which they described as crucial electricity providers for military operations. Additionally, a military site near the presidential palace was also targeted.

Residents of Sanaa reported hearing loud explosions near a closed military academy and the presidential palace. Witnesses described seeing plumes of smoke rising near Sabeen Square, a central gathering point in the capital. Some residents reported experiencing the force of the strikes, with homes being rocked and windows shattered.

The Houthis have been launching missiles and drones towards Israel and targeting ships in the Red Sea for over 22 months, citing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza as their motivation. Following the recent strikes, Nasruddin Amer, deputy head of the Houthi media office, stated that the attacks would not deter the rebels and vowed to continue their attacks on Israel.

These strikes mark the first such attacks in Yemen since a week ago, when Israel targeted energy infrastructure it believed was being used by the rebels.

BNN's Perspective: The escalating tensions in the region, with both sides exchanging attacks, are deeply concerning. While Israel has a right to defend itself, the targeting of infrastructure and the potential for civilian casualties in Yemen raise serious humanitarian concerns. A diplomatic solution is urgently needed to de-escalate the conflict and prevent further suffering.

Keywords: Israeli airstrikes, Yemen, Sanaa, Houthis, military targets, power plants, presidential palace, Red Sea, Gaza, conflict, humanitarian concerns, de-escalation

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