What is Yemen's Houthi's 'comprehensive air blockade' against Israel?
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Synopsis
Yemen's Houthi group has declared a bold 'comprehensive air blockade' against Israel, intensifying missile attacks on key airports, especially Ben Gurion. This escalation comes as tensions rise amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, prompting international airlines to reconsider flights to the region. How will this impact global air travel and diplomatic relations?
Key Takeaways
- The Houthis have declared a 'comprehensive air blockade' on Israel.
- Missile attacks are primarily focused on Ben Gurion Airport.
- International airlines are canceling flights due to security concerns.
- Israel's military acknowledges failures in intercepting missiles.
- The situation escalates amid ongoing tensions in Gaza.
Sanaa, May 5 (NationPress) The Houthi group from Yemen has declared its intention to persist with missile strikes targeting airports in Israel, particularly Ben Gurion Airport, as part of what they describe as a 'comprehensive air blockade' against the nation.
Yahya Sarea, the military spokesperson for the Houthis, stated in a broadcast on the group’s al-Masirah TV, 'We announce a comprehensive air blockade on the Israeli enemy in response to its decision to expand its aggression against Gaza.'
He emphasized, 'We will work to impose the blockade by repeatedly targeting airports, most notably Ben Gurion Airport.' He also urged international airlines to cancel all flights scheduled to any airport in Israel.
Earlier on the same day, the Houthi group took responsibility for a missile strike that impacted a roadway leading to the main terminal of Ben Gurion Airport in central Israel, resulting in four minor injuries and causing damage, as reported by Xinhua.
The Israeli military revealed that aerial defense systems attempted to intercept the missile but were unsuccessful. They later released a statement indicating that an initial investigation suggested that the failure was due to a 'technical issue' with the interceptor missile.
In response to the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning to the Houthis via a video statement, threatening retaliatory strikes against the group. He later posted on the social media platform X that Israel would respond to the Houthis in Yemen and their ally, Iran.
Following the missile strike, several international airlines, including Air Europa, Swiss International Air Lines, Lufthansa, ITA Airways, and Brussels Airlines, canceled flights to and from Israel.
In recent weeks, the Houthis have ramped up their missile and drone launches targeting Israel, coinciding with renewed U.S. airstrikes on their positions in Yemen.
The Houthi forces, who control significant portions of northern Yemen, have been targeting Israel since November 2023, which they have framed as a show of solidarity with the Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The group has claimed they would cease their attacks if Israel halts its military actions and blockade against Gaza.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the recent actions of the Houthi group with an unbiased lens. The declaration of a 'comprehensive air blockade' against Israel marks a significant escalation in regional tensions. While the Houthis frame their actions as solidarity with Gaza, the broader implications for international relations and air travel cannot be overlooked. We must remain committed to reporting these developments with integrity and impartiality.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Houthi's air blockade announcement?
The Houthi group announced the blockade in response to Israel's military actions in Gaza, claiming it as a necessary measure to counter aggression.
What are the repercussions for international airlines?
Several airlines have canceled flights to and from Israel following the missile attacks, reflecting the heightened security concerns in the region.
How has Israel responded to the missile attacks?
Israel's military attempted to intercept the missiles but reported a failure due to a technical issue, leading to warnings from Prime Minister Netanyahu against the Houthis.
Are the Houthis likely to continue their attacks?
The Houthis have indicated they will continue their missile strikes until Israel ceases its military operations in Gaza.
What is the historical context of Houthi attacks on Israel?
The Houthi forces have been targeting Israel since November 2023, positioning their actions as solidarity with Palestinian struggles amid ongoing conflicts.
