Official statements from the Israeli government or major news agencies like Reuters or BBC

Israel Strikes Houthi Targets in Yemen After July 19 Drone Attack on Tel Aviv Killed Civilian

Jul 20, 2024, 05:32 PM

On July 20, 2024, Israeli fighter jets conducted airstrikes on military targets in the Houthi-controlled port city of Al-Hudaydah in Yemen. The strikes were a response to a deadly drone attack on Tel Aviv by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels on July 19, which killed a civilian. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that the airstrikes targeted fuel depots and oil refining facilities, causing significant damage and massive fires. This marks the first time Israel has publicly acknowledged striking Houthi targets in Yemen. The IDF stated that the strikes were in retaliation for hundreds of attacks on Israel by the Houthis in recent months. The port of Al-Hudaydah is reportedly used by the Houthis for smuggling weapons and military equipment from Iran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the airstrikes aimed to damage the Houthis' military capabilities and economic resources.