Israel launched a series of airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen on Sunday, while intensifying its assault on Hezbollah in Lebanon. The latest strikes, targeting Iran-backed proxies across the Middle East, have heightened fears of a broader regional conflict.
In Yemen, Israeli warplanes bombed fuel facilities, power plants, and docks at the Ras Issa and Hodeidah ports, making it one of the largest operations since the escalation began nearly a year ago. Israeli officials stated that the raids aimed to dismantle Houthi capabilities after the group launched several attacks against Israeli targets in recent months, including international shipping in the Red Sea.
The strikes came just hours after Houthi forces launched a ballistic missile at Israel’s main airport during Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's arrival.
Meanwhile, in Lebanon, at least 50 more people were killed as Israel continued its bombardment of Hezbollah strongholds, following the assassination of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, in Beirut.
Israeli forces stated that the sites targeted in Yemen were used to transfer Iranian weapons and military supplies. "The Houthis have been operating under Iran's direction, alongside Iraqi militias, to attack Israel and destabilise the region," the Israeli military said.
In Lebanon, Hezbollah launched multiple rocket salvos into northern Israel, targeting both soldiers and civilian areas, following the death of Nasrallah. Israel responded with widespread airstrikes in southern Lebanon, including Sidon and the Bekaa valley, where several senior Hezbollah commanders were killed.
Nasrallah’s death has dealt a significant blow to Iran’s regional influence. Hezbollah’s leadership, known for spearheading Tehran's "Axis of Resistance", has suffered heavy losses, including the assassination of senior military figures over the past 10 days.
Lebanese officials have reported thousands of casualties and widespread displacement amid Israel’s continued airstrikes. The United Nations estimates that over 200,000 people have been displaced inside Lebanon, with many seeking refuge in neighboring Syria.
International diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire have stalled. While European nations have called for an immediate halt to Israeli strikes, the U.S. has emphasised the importance of a diplomatic solution to avoid further escalation with Hezbollah and Iran.
As Israel weighs the possibility of a ground offensive in Lebanon, Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated that Nasrallah’s assassination marks a turning point in the region's power dynamics.
“Nasrallah was not just a terrorist; he was the terrorist,” Netanyahu declared, signaling that Israel remains determined to counter any threats to its security.
