Official announcements from the Israeli Defense Forces, US Department of Defense, or UK Ministry of Defence

Israel, US, UK Launch First Joint Strikes on Houthis in Yemen After Attacks

Jan 10, 2025, 01:36 PM

Israel, the United States, and the United Kingdom have carried out coordinated airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that over 20 of its aircraft, including fighter jets, refuelers, and reconnaissance planes, struck military targets belonging to the Iran-backed Houthi movement. The operation targeted sites in western and central Yemen, including military infrastructure at the Hezyaz power station near the capital Sana'a, a central energy source for Houthi military activities, and facilities at the ports of Hodeidah and Ras Isa on the Red Sea coast. The strikes were conducted in response to repeated missile and drone attacks by the Houthis against Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, 'Just as we promised, the Houthis are paying—and will continue to pay—a heavy price for their aggression against us. We will take determined and forceful action against anyone who threatens the State of Israel wherever and whenever necessary.' According to the IDF, the fighter jets dropped approximately 50 munitions on key targets, including underground facilities, missile storage sites, and drone depots. This marks the first joint military operation by Israel, the US, and the UK against Houthi positions in Yemen. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for launching drones and ballistic missiles towards Israel in recent weeks, aligning themselves with Iranian regional objectives. The coordinated strikes signify an escalation in the involvement of Western powers in the conflict in Yemen, aiming to counter the threat posed by the Houthi movement.