Israel’s airstrikes on Yemen killed dozens and deepened fears of a wider Middle East war.
At a Glance
- Israeli jets struck Houthi sites in Yemen on September 10, killing at least 35 people.
- The strikes followed Israel’s controversial hit on Hamas figures in Qatar.
- Civilian infrastructure, including a hospital and media offices, suffered heavy damage.
- The Houthis vowed retaliation, intensifying the Iran-Israel proxy struggle.
The Strikes and Their Cost
On September 10, the Israeli Defense Forces launched coordinated strikes across northern Yemen.
Targets included military sites around Sanaa and Al Jawf, but civilian areas also took direct hits.
The death toll rose to at least 35, with more than 130 injured, according to local officials.
A medical center and media headquarters were among the destroyed facilities, stoking anger.
Watch now: Israel Launches Airstrikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen’s Sanaa, 35 Killed And Over 130 Injured | N18G
Israel framed the strikes as a defensive measure against ongoing Houthi missile and drone attacks.
Officials argued that crippling Houthi capacity was necessary to protect Israeli civilians.
The Iran Factor
The Houthis’ fight against Israel is part of Tehran’s broader strategy to pressure Tel Aviv.
Iran supplies the group with weapons and guidance, allowing it to strike targets far beyond Yemen.
By hitting Yemen, Israel sends a message not only to the Houthis but also to Tehran itself.
Analysts see the strikes as a clear warning that Iranian proxies will face direct punishment.
Still, the destruction of civilian infrastructure has raised accusations of disproportionate force.
Rights groups warn that targeting non-military sites could breach international humanitarian law.
Regional Shockwaves
The timing of the Yemen strikes drew immediate notice across the region.
They came just days after Israel’s controversial raid on Hamas officials in Qatar.
Some analysts suggest the Yemen operation was meant to shift attention from that episode.
But the twin actions may instead reinforce the narrative of Israel as a regional aggressor.
The Houthis, emboldened by Iranian support, quickly pledged a response to the Israeli attacks.
This promise raises fears of further escalation across an already volatile Middle East front.
Global Reactions
International critics argue Israel risks igniting a wider war with its aggressive posture.
Western allies voiced concern, while aid groups condemned the civilian toll in Yemen.
The strikes worsened an already dire humanitarian crisis in a country long battered by conflict.
Destroyed media outlets and hospitals leave civilians more vulnerable and less informed.
Global powers now weigh the consequences as Israel doubles down on military action.
For regional actors, the choice narrows between containment and sliding into open confrontation.