Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday evening issued a stern warning, stating that Israel would continue military operations in Yemen even without the participation of its “American friends.” This declaration comes in the wake of a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Yemen’s Houthi group, mediated by Oman, which notably excludes Israel from its provisions.
According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu, in a televised speech, emphasized Israel’s resolve to self-defend, stating, “Israel will defend itself by itself. We are doing this in Yemen, we are doing this in other places, at great distances.” He added that it would be advantageous if the United States joined in the efforts alongside Israel.
On Tuesday, Israeli forces conducted airstrikes in Yemen, focusing on Sanaa airport, power stations, and industrial sites, resulting in the deaths of at least seven individuals and injuries to 74 others. These strikes come as a response to the actions of the Houthi group, which has been targeting vessels in the Red and Arabian seas, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the Gulf of Aden since November 2023. The Houthis have expressed solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, where an Israeli military campaign has resulted in over 52,600 Palestinian casualties, predominantly women and children, over a span of more than 19 months.
The Houthi attacks had ceased following a ceasefire declared in January between Israel and Hamas, but resumed after Israel recommenced airstrikes on Gaza in March. Netanyahu also addressed the situation in Gaza, revealing for the first time that only 21 Israeli hostages are believed to be alive in the area, a revision from the previous figure of 24. Earlier estimates suggested 59 captives, with 24 thought to be alive. Meanwhile, over 9,500 Palestinians remain detained in Israel, reportedly enduring severe conditions, as highlighted by both Palestinian and Israeli rights organizations.
The conflict has drawn international legal attention, with the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions in the enclave.