Wed May 28 08:51:51 UTC 2025: ## Israeli Airstrike Cripples Sanaa Airport, Destroying Remaining Civilian Aircraft
**Sanaa, Yemen** – Airstrikes attributed to Israel have severely damaged Yemen’s main airport in Sanaa, reportedly hitting the runway and destroying the last remaining civilian aircraft belonging to Yemenia Airways. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, comes a day after Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for firing two projectiles towards Israel.
Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV reported four strikes hit the airport’s runway and a Yemenia Airways plane. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the strikes, stating the Israeli air force targeted Houthi “terror targets” at the airport and “destroyed the last aircraft remaining.”
“This is a clear message and a continuation of our policy: whoever fires at the State of Israel will pay a heavy price,” Katz stated.
Israeli air defenses intercepted the two projectiles fired by the Houthis towards Israel on Tuesday. The Houthis subsequently confirmed the missile launches.
Sanaa airport, the largest in Yemen, had recently resumed operations after repairs following previous Israeli strikes. It primarily served United Nations aircraft and the remaining Yemenia Airways plane after three others were destroyed in previous attacks.
Since the start of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, the Houthis have repeatedly targeted Israel, claiming solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. This latest attack represents a significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and the Houthi rebels, further destabilizing the already volatile region. Concerns are mounting over the humanitarian impact of the airport’s closure, potentially hindering the delivery of vital aid and supplies to Yemen.