Did Israeli Strikes in Sanaa Claim the Lives of Houthi Leaders?
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Synopsis
Tragic events unfolded in Yemen as Israeli airstrikes claimed the lives of Houthi leaders, including Prime Minister Ahmed al-Rahawi. This incident has sparked outrage and promises of retaliation from the Houthi group, raising questions about the ongoing conflict and its implications for regional stability.
Key Takeaways
- The Israeli airstrikes in Sanaa resulted in the deaths of key Houthi leaders.
- This incident escalates the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
- The Houthis have vowed to retaliate against Israel.
- Humanitarian concerns continue to grow amid the violence.
- International dialogue is crucial to prevent further escalation.
Sanaa, Aug 30 (NationPress) - The Houthi movement in Yemen reported on Saturday that Prime Minister Ahmed al-Rahawi of the Houthi-supported government, along with several other Ministers, lost their lives due to Israeli airstrikes on the capital, Sanaa, earlier this week.
In a statement, they declared, "We announce the martyrdom of Ahmed Ghaleb al-Rahawi, Prime Minister of the Government of Change and Construction, along with a number of his fellow Ministers on Thursday." The attack occurred during a workshop focused on reviewing government activities over the past year, as reported by Xinhua.
Several other Ministers sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical care in hospitals.
The precise number of Ministers killed remains unspecified.
The Houthis asserted that the government would persist in its operations and vowed to retaliate against Israel "very soon." Initially, the group had refuted reports of casualties following Thursday's strikes, despite the confirmation of Rahawi's death.
According to Israel, their Air Force executed a "significant operation" aimed at a Houthi cabinet meeting in Sanaa while attendees were viewing a speech by the Houthi leader, Abdulmalik al-Houthi, concerning the Gaza conflict.
A source within the Houthi movement indicated that Israeli warplanes conducted 10 airstrikes on a building in southern Sanaa where the meeting was taking place.
This strike represents a profound setback for the Houthis since they commenced missile and drone assaults against Israel in November 2023 as a show of support for Palestinians amidst the Gaza conflict.
The Houthis took control of Sanaa in 2014, which led to the internationally recognized Yemeni government fleeing to Aden.
Since then, they have governed a significant portion of northern Yemen, including Sanaa and the vital Red Sea port of Hodeidah, establishing an unrecognized government in the capital.
Earlier this week, Israeli attacks affected multiple regions in Sanaa, resulting in at least 10 fatalities and injuring 102 others, as reported by the Houthi-run Health Ministry and government officials.
The Houthis have been launching missiles and drones toward Israel and targeting vessels in the Red Sea throughout Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, claiming their actions are in support of the Palestinians.
In retaliation for the Houthi assaults, Israel and a US-led coalition have targeted rebel-controlled areas in Yemen, including Sanaa and the strategically important coastal city of Hodeidah.
Israeli strikes rendered Sanaa airport non-operational in May.
The Trump administration had previously announced a deal with the Houthis to cease airstrikes in exchange for an end to attacks on shipping in May. However, the rebels stated that the agreement did not cover halting strikes on targets they deemed aligned with Israel.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight the complex dynamics at play in Yemen. The tragic loss of Houthi leaders raises significant concerns over regional stability and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. While the Houthis vow retaliation, the international community must seek pathways to de-escalation and dialogue to prevent further suffering among civilians.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Sanaa?
Israeli airstrikes targeted a Houthi cabinet meeting in Sanaa, resulting in the deaths of Houthi Prime Minister Ahmed al-Rahawi and several Ministers.
How many casualties were reported?
At least 10 people were killed, and over 102 others were injured in the strikes, according to Houthi sources.
What was the Houthis' response?
The Houthis pledged to continue their government operations and promised retaliation against Israel.
What is the historical context of the Houthis' control in Yemen?
The Houthis seized control of Sanaa in 2014, leading to the exile of the internationally recognized Yemeni government.
What is the significance of these airstrikes?
These strikes represent a major escalation in the conflict and mark a significant blow to the Houthi leadership amid ongoing regional tensions.
