Israel has struck at the heart of Houthi power, targeting a military compound in Sanaa that contains the group’s presidential palace. The daring raid was part of a broader retaliatory operation that also hit fuel depots and power stations in the Yemeni capital.
While Israel’s Defence Minister claimed the palace itself was “destroyed,” this has not been confirmed. However, the targeting of the compound is a clear signal that no symbol of Houthi authority is off-limits. The strikes are designed to demoralize the rebel leadership and demonstrate Israel’s intelligence and precision capabilities.
The operation was launched after the Houthis used a ballistic missile with a cluster bomb warhead against Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the Houthis are paying a “very heavy price” for this aggression, a price that includes direct hits on their seat of government.
The attack has resulted in significant casualties, with six reported dead and 86 wounded. By taking the fight directly to the Houthi leadership’s doorstep, Israel has dramatically raised the stakes in its long-distance conflict with the Yemeni rebels.
