Mon May 12 06:05:11 UTC 2025: ## US-Houthi Ceasefire Leaves Yemen Still in Crosshairs of Israeli Attacks

**Sana’a, Yemen/Jerusalem –** A surprising announcement of a ceasefire between the United States and the Houthi rebels in Yemen has done little to quell escalating violence in the region. While US President Donald Trump declared a cessation of hostilities, claiming a Houthi surrender, Israel has continued its airstrikes against Yemeni targets, deepening the humanitarian crisis.

The US-Houthi agreement, according to Trump, involves a halt to US bombing of Yemen and a cessation of Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. However, the Houthis have explicitly stated the deal does not apply to Israel, vowing to continue attacks until Israel allows aid into Gaza.

Israel’s recent attacks, which have targeted Sanaa airport and the crucial port of Hodeidah, have killed and wounded civilians and damaged vital infrastructure. These actions, some analysts suggest, may reflect growing tensions between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, particularly given Trump’s omission of Israel in his ceasefire announcement. Netanyahu has reportedly expressed frustration with Trump’s Middle East policy, particularly regarding negotiations with Iran.

Israel justifies its attacks as a means to deter the Houthis, claiming they are responding to Houthi attacks on Israeli territory. However, experts question the efficacy of this strategy, citing the vastness and mountainous terrain of northern Yemen, making it difficult to track and target Houthi leadership. Furthermore, the damage to vital ports exacerbates Yemen’s already dire humanitarian situation, threatening millions with famine.

The increased intensity of US airstrikes under President Trump’s administration, characterized as indiscriminate and resulting in significant civilian casualties, has failed to deter the Houthis. Analysts argue that Israel’s attacks, similarly, will not significantly weaken the Houthi capabilities.

The ongoing conflict, coupled with the existing humanitarian crisis, paints a grim picture for the Yemeni people. Millions are already facing starvation, and the damage to vital infrastructure caused by the recent Israeli strikes will only worsen this already precarious situation. With both sides seemingly entrenched in their positions, the prospects for a broader resolution remain bleak, unless the conflict in Gaza is resolved.

Read More