Israel Hits Three Ports And Power Plant In Yemen

A commercial cargo ship, Magic Seas, sailing under a Liberian flag and operated by a Greek company, was attacked in the Red Sea on Sunday, July 6. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the attack took place about 100 kilometers southwest of the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeidah, Yemen. The crew was forced to abandon the ship after it caught fire. Security reports indicate the vessel was struck by unmanned explosive-laden boats, followed by small arms and RPG fire.

Private maritime security firm Ambrey reported that the ship was approached by eight fast Houthi boats-two of which struck the vessel in suicide missions, while the remaining were either destroyed by the ship's armed guards or withdrew. The Houthis have not officially claimed responsibility, though affiliated media acknowledged the incident. The Associated Press identified this as the first major maritime assault since the ceasefire agreement between the Houthis and the United States.

In response, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that the Israeli military had launched extensive airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, targeting areas in the ports of Hudaydah, Ras Isa, and Salif. Katz confirmed that a power station and a previously seized vessel were among the targets.“As I warned, Yemen will be treated like Tehran,” he said.“Anyone who tries to harm Israel will be harmed... the Houthis will pay a heavy price.”

The escalation follows growing fears of Iranian-backed Houthi efforts to destabilize maritime trade in the Red Sea. Yemeni Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani, from the exiled anti-Houthi government, stated:“This attack once again proves the Houthis are nothing more than a cover for Iran's strategy in the region.” He added that Iran continues to supply the group with missiles, drones, naval mines, and advanced military technology.

The incident comes amid fragile diplomatic efforts to negotiate a new ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and as tensions remain high following a recent 12-day military exchange between Iran, Israel, and the United States. Mohammad Al-Basha, a Yemeni analyst with The Basha Report, commented:“The attack signals that the Houthis retain both the capacity and intent to disrupt regional stability regardless of diplomatic overtures.”

The Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden are among the world's busiest maritime routes, essential for global oil and goods transport. Continued attacks on commercial vessels threaten not only regional security but also international shipping and economic stability.

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