Yemeni capital witnesses fatal attacks by Israeli forces, Houthi rebels confirm loss of six lives

In a significant escalation of tensions, Israel carried out air strikes on an energy infrastructure site in Sanaa, Yemen, on August 17. The strikes, which targeted a building in central Sanaa, a military compound, two power stations, and a fuel depot, were in response to repeated attacks by the Huthi terrorist regime, according to the Israeli army.

The Huthi regime, which has been firing missiles and drones at Israel, claiming to act in solidarity with the Palestinians, has vowed to respond to the Israeli strikes. The large fireball from the attacks was seen over the rebel-held capital, illuminating the skies.

The Huthi-run Saba news agency reported six people killed and 86 wounded in the Israeli raid. However, the health ministry in Yemen stated that more than 20 people are in critical condition as a result of the Israeli strikes. The capital's Haziz power station was reportedly hit during the August 17 strike.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Israel Katz, and military chief Eyal Zamir observed the strikes from a command bunker. Katz stated that the Huthis would "pay with compound interest for every attempt to fire at Israel".

The Huthis have also targeted ships they claim are linked to Israel in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Iran's foreign ministry has condemned the Israeli strikes, adding to the international concern over the escalating conflict.

It is important to note that the attacks on Yemen mentioned were not only conducted by Israel. The United States and the United Kingdom, with support from other countries, have also conducted airstrikes targeting the Houthi movement from January 2024 to May 2025. Additionally, Israel conducted airstrikes against the Houthi government in Yemen, killing their prime minister and several ministers during a gathering in Sanaa in 2025.

Most of the Huthi attacks on Israel have been intercepted. However, a missile fired late Friday, which Israeli authorities said likely fragmented in mid-air, adds to the ongoing tension. The missile, reportedly carrying a cluster warhead, is the first of its kind known to have been fired from Yemen.

As the conflict continues, both sides have shown no signs of deviating from their fight against each other. The Huthi regime has remained steadfast in its stance against Israel and the United States, while Israel continues to respond to the Huthi attacks with military action. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and calling for de-escalation to prevent further loss of life and stability in the region.

Yemeni capital witnesses fatal attacks by Israeli forces, Houthi rebels confirm loss of six lives