(MENAFN) Israel has initiated a major bombing campaign called “Operation Black Flag” against critical infrastructure in Yemen, accusing the Houthi movement of converting ports and power facilities for military use. Announced by Defense Minister Israel Katz and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Monday, the strikes hit Yemeni ports in Hodeidah, Ras Isa, and Al-Salif, as well as a power plant at Ras Katib, with loud explosions reported near the targeted areas.

The IDF claimed these ports are used by the Houthis, labeled as a “terrorist regime,” to smuggle Iranian weapons used in attacks against Israel and its allies. One target at Ras Isa was the Galaxy Leader, a commercial ship captured by Houthis in November 2023 and reportedly equipped with radar to track Red Sea maritime traffic and facilitate attacks on vessels.

The Ras Katib power station was described as a key electricity source supporting Houthi military operations, with the IDF emphasizing that civilian infrastructure is being exploited for military purposes. Defense Minister Katz reiterated that Israel sees the Houthis as part of Iran’s broader regional proxy network, warning that Yemen will face consequences similar to Tehran.

Israel accuses the Houthis of acting as a central proxy for Iran, receiving weapons and funding to carry out terrorist activities globally, disrupting trade, and threatening Israeli security. The Israeli government stressed its commitment to responding to threats anywhere they arise.

The Houthis have attacked ships in the Red Sea since late 2023, showing solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza conflict. Although a US-brokered ceasefire temporarily halted these attacks in May, the Houthis resumed drone and missile strikes on Israel after the recent ceasefire between Israel and Iran. The current Israeli strikes mark the most significant military action in Yemen since May’s operations.

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