Israel Launches ‘Operation Black Flag’ Against Houthi Targets in Yemen
Israel has launched a large-scale military operation, ‘Operation Black Flag,’ targeting key infrastructure in Yemen, including ports and a power station, in response to repeated Houthi attacks on Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have accused the Houthi regime of repurposing these facilities for military use, such as transferring weapons from Iran and monitoring maritime traffic.
The operation, announced by Defense Minister Israel Katz, involves strikes on the ports of Hodeidah, Ras Isa, and Al-Salif, as well as the Ras Katib power station. The IDF claims the targets are critical to the Houthi’s military operations, enabling the group to conduct attacks on Israel and its allies. The strikes reportedly caused significant damage to the targeted sites, with loud explosions reported in the affected areas.
The IDF further stated that one of the targets, the Galaxy Leader, a commercial vessel seized by the Houthis in 2023, was equipped with a radar system for monitoring maritime traffic in the Red Sea. The Ras Kanatib power station, described as a key electricity supply hub for Houthi military operations, was also targeted, with the IDF accusing the group of using civilian infrastructure for military purposes.
Defense Minister Katz emphasized that Israel views the Houthis as part of a broader network of Iranian-backed forces in the region. In a statement on X, he warned that Yemen will be treated like Tehran, stating, “Anyone who tries to harm Israel will be harmed, and anyone who raises a hand against Israel will have it cut off. The Houhis will continue to pay a heavy price for their actions.” This marks the most extensive military action in Yemen since the series of strikes in May, highlighting the escalating tensions in the region.
The Houthi movement has accused Israel of conducting a disproportionate response and has indicated its intention to resume attacks if Washington supports Israeli strikes on Iran. Despite a temporary pause in Houthi attacks in exchange for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, the group has since resumed its operations, prompting Israel to take decisive military action in Yemen.