Israel conducted targeted airstrikes on multiple sites within Sanaa, Yemen, on August 24, 2025. This action was a direct response to a ballistic missile launched by Houthi rebels towards Israel on August 22, 2025, which was successfully intercepted by Israeli defense systems. The Houthi-run health ministry reported significant damage and casualties following the Israeli strikes.
The Israeli military stated that the targeted locations, including a military compound housing the presidential palace, two power plants (Asar and Hizaz), and a fuel storage facility, were utilized by the Houthi military for operations against Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that the Houthis would face severe repercussions for their aggression, while Defense Minister Israel Katz indicated a continued strategy of targeting Houthi-controlled infrastructure to deter future attacks.
The Houthi missile launch on Friday, August 22, 2025, marked a significant development as the Israeli military confirmed it was the first instance of the Yemeni group employing a cluster bomb warhead in a ballistic missile attack. This tactic is similar to those previously used by Iran. The Houthis have been engaged in a campaign of missile and drone launches toward Israel since the conflict in Gaza began in October 2023, framing these actions as solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Residents in Sanaa described powerful explosions and widespread destruction, with some reporting that their homes were rocked and windows shattered by the force of the strikes. The Houthi-run health ministry reported at least four fatalities and 67 injuries. International observers have expressed concern over the escalating violence, highlighting its potential to destabilize the wider region. This exchange of fire represents a critical juncture in the ongoing proxy conflict, demonstrating the expanding reach of regional tensions. The Houthis' advanced missile capabilities, reportedly bolstered by Iranian support, include systems with ranges capable of reaching Israel. Their arsenal comprises various ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as drones, with some systems showing similarities to Iranian designs. The Houthis have also been active in targeting maritime traffic in the Red Sea, impacting global shipping and economic stability. The situation underscores the interconnectedness of regional conflicts and the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.