Escalation in the Red Sea: Israel Strikes Houthi Ports

In a dramatic escalation, Israel's military launched early Monday airstrikes targeting key ports and facilities held by Yemen's Houthi rebels. The strikes came in response to what Israel cited as a suspected Houthi attack on a ship in the Red Sea, which ignited, took on water, and led to the crew abandoning the vessel.

Among the targets struck by Israeli forces were Hodeida, Ras Isa, and Salif—ports claimed to be hubs for weapon transfers from Iran to the Houthis. Israel accuses these facilities of being instrumental in supporting terrorist activities against Israel and its allies.

Retaliating, the Houthis reportedly launched a missile aimed at Israel. While Israel attempted to intercept the missile, early reports indicate it may have made impact, though there were no immediate accounts of casualties.

(With inputs from agencies.)