Daijiworld Media Network- Jerusalem

Jerusalem, May 7: In a major escalation of regional tensions, Israeli forces on Tuesday struck Yemen’s main airport in Sanaa, rendering it "completely disabled," according to military and media sources. The airport is under the control of the Iran-backed Houthi rebels.

Israeli military officials said the airstrike was a direct response to a missile launched by the Houthis two days ago, which landed near Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport, briefly disrupting air traffic.

According to Reuters, the Israeli strikes hit three civilian aircraft, the main departures hall, the runway, and a military base adjacent to the airport. Citing airport sources, it reported severe damage to critical infrastructure. An unnamed official told AFP that the airport had been “completely destroyed.”

The Houthis confirmed the attack and claimed that at least three people were killed, vowing swift retaliation. “The aggression will not go unanswered,” a Houthi spokesperson said in a televised address.

Tuesday's strike marks a significant expansion of Israel’s engagement beyond its immediate borders, as the country continues to counter threats from Iranian proxies across the region. It also raises concerns about escalation involving multiple fronts, with active conflicts already simmering in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and now Yemen.

International observers have warned of the risks of a wider regional conflict, with the United Nations calling for restraint and the protection of civilian infrastructure, especially air transport facilities.