Context:

Israeli fighter jets conducted airstrikes on Yemen's main international airport in retaliation for a Houthi missile strike near Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport. The airstrikes resulted in the deaths of at least three people and injuries to more than 30 others, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have been launching attacks on Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, leading to heightened tensions in the region. Despite the airstrikes, Yemeni analysts suggest that such actions have historically failed to deter the Houthis, who continue to assert their commitment to their cause. The destruction of Sana’s airport significantly impacts Yemeni civilians, restricting their access to essential medical care and international travel, and is viewed as collective punishment by many locals.

Dive Deeper:

• Israeli airstrikes targeted Yemen's main airport following a missile attack by the Houthi militia near Israel's Ben Gurion Airport, which prompted Israeli leaders to vow retaliatory measures.

• The airstrikes in Sana and other regions resulted in the deaths of at least three people and more than 30 injuries, further worsening the humanitarian situation in Yemen, one of the poorest countries in the Arab world.

• The Houthis, who control much of northwestern Yemen, have been conducting a campaign of rocket and drone attacks against Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, and have also declared an 'air blockade' on Israel.

• The United States has conducted a bombing campaign against the Houthis, initiated by the Biden administration and escalated under President Trump, aiming to degrade the militia’s capabilities; however, Trump announced a halt to these bombings claiming the Houthis no longer wish to fight.

• Sana’s airport, a crucial link for over 20 million Yemenis in Houthi-controlled areas, was severely affected, compounding the difficulties faced by civilians needing urgent medical treatment abroad and disrupting travel plans for many, such as Waseem al-Haidari's aunt.

• Prior warnings were given by the Israeli military, including evacuation orders, before the airstrikes which also targeted power stations and a cement factory, aiming to disable the airport's infrastructure.

• Yemeni analysts argue that airstrikes have never effectively deterred the Houthis, who continue to receive weapons and technology through smuggling, and the destruction of the airport is perceived as collective punishment by the civilian population.