Tue May 06 14:58:46 UTC 2025: ## Israeli Strikes Cripple Sanaa Airport, Killing Civilians

**Sanaa, Yemen –** Israeli airstrikes have severely damaged Sanaa International Airport, the main airport in Yemen’s rebel-held capital, resulting in at least three deaths and over 30 injuries, according to Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV. The Israeli military claimed the airport was a central hub for Houthi weapons and operative transfers, justifying the attack as retaliation for a ballistic missile strike near Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday. The strikes, which also targeted a concrete factory and power stations, were described by the Israeli army as “fully disabling” the airport.

The Israeli military’s statement asserts that the operation was authorized by top military officials and vows continued forceful action against perceived threats to Israel. However, the attacks have drawn condemnation. The Houthi political bureau denounced the strikes as an act of “vandalism” aimed at imposing a blockade on the Yemeni people. Sultan Barakat, a professor at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, questioned the strategic value of targeting the airport, noting its already limited operation due to existing UN and Saudi sanctions. He argued that the attack will primarily hinder humanitarian aid efforts in one of the world’s poorest countries.

Al Jazeera’s reporting from Sanaa indicates uncertainty regarding the full extent of infrastructure damage. Verified footage shows plumes of smoke rising from the capital following the strikes. These attacks follow similar Israeli strikes on Yemen’s Hodeidah port less than 24 hours prior, resulting in further casualties. The Israeli military claimed that the targets were aimed at disrupting Houthi military capabilities.

The Houthis, who have launched numerous drone and missile attacks targeting Israeli vessels in the Red Sea since November 2023, maintain that their actions are in support of Palestinians in Gaza. They claim these attacks will cease only with a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The escalation follows a resumption of Houthi operations after a fragile Gaza ceasefire and Israel’s subsequent actions in March. The increased tensions highlight the complex regional dynamics and the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict on civilian populations.

Read More