Israel last night launched a large-scale air operation against Houthi-controlled Yemen that saw some 40 aircraft hit targets in Al-Hodeidah and the Bajil district. The series of air strikes was in direct retaliation for a Houthi ballistic missile strike on Ben-Gurion International Airport on Sunday.

Israeli officials said the aim of the overnight airstrikes was not only retaliation and deterrence, but also to aid ongoing US-led efforts to dismantle the Houthis’ capacity to threaten Israel and disrupt vital Red Sea shipping lanes.

An Israel Air Force pilot checks his munitions before taking off for a strike against Yemen’s Houthi terrorist regime. Photo: IDF

The strikes focused on Hodeidah Port, a key hub for Houthi military operations, and a cement factory in Bajil, both identified as critical to the group’s missile and drone activities. A statement issued by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that the action served to “degrade the Houthi regime’s economic and military buildup capabilities.”

Social media reports on X described intense explosions and thick smoke, underscoring the operation’s scale.

Israeli airstrikes have begun in Hodeidah, Yemen.
Reports of about 30 fighter jets attacking 9 targets simultaneously.

The Yemenis are reporting dozens of loud explosions, so they are calling this a very significant attack.

The strikes paralyzed the port of Hudeidah. Our… pic.twitter.com/81H2l5mon5

— Cheryl E 🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱🎗️ (@CherylWroteIt) May 5, 2025

The IDF deployed over 50 munitions, ensuring a significant blow to the Houthis’ infrastructure. While casualty figures remain undisclosed, the strikes sent a clear message: Israel will not tolerate attacks on its sovereignty.

The Iran-backed Houthis justify their ongoing missile and drone attacks on Israel as solidarity with Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in coordination with Defense Minister Israel Katz, emphasized Israel’s resolve to counter threats from Iran’s proxies. The Houthis, already under pressure from US-led Operation Rough Rider, will increasingly face the consequences of challenging Israel’s security.

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir (right) and Israel Air Force Chief Tomer Bar direct the strike on Yemen. Photo: IDF

Critics point to Hodeidah’s role in Yemen’s humanitarian supply chain, but the port’s militarization by the Houthis cannot be ignored. For years, the Houthis, much like Hamas in Gaza, have exploited civilian infrastructure to advance their own violent agenda, leaving Israel with little choice but to act decisively. The United States and United Kingdom, engaged in parallel efforts against the Houthis, share a common interest in curbing their destabilizing influence. Israel’s actions align with this broader strategy, prioritizing the safety of its citizens and regional stability.

“The IDF is determined to continue operating, at any distance, against all threats posed to the citizens of the State of Israel,” concluded the statement issued by the Israeli military.

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