“Israeli Airstrikes Hit Yemen Airport: WHO Chief Narrowly Escapes Amid Rising Tensions”

The latest airstrike of Israel on the Gaza Strip.

On December 26, 2024, Israeli airstrikes hit Yemen’s Sanaa International Airport and the port city of Hodeida. The attacks occurred as World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was about to board a flight in Sanaa. A crew member was injured in the strikes, and the airport sustained significant damage, including its control tower, runway, and departure lounge.

Dr. Tedros shared on social media platform X that he and his colleagues were safe but stranded due to the damage. He confirmed at least two fatalities and expressed concern over the humanitarian impact. Video footage from the airport showed terrified passengers fleeing amid smoke and debris.

The Israeli military later stated they were unaware of Dr. Tedros’ presence at the airport. They justified the strikes by claiming they targeted “military infrastructure used by the Houthi terrorist regime” at key facilities, including power stations and port areas.

Meanwhile, Houthi officials reported three deaths and fourteen injuries, while their media channels confirmed the strikes without sharing extensive details. The United Nations emphasized the critical role of these ports for humanitarian aid delivery, highlighting the escalating risk to relief operations.

These airstrikes followed remarks by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who warned that the Houthis would face consequences similar to Hamas and Hezbollah. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have recently launched attacks on Red Sea shipping lanes in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

In Gaza, tensions also flared as an Israeli strike killed five Palestinians outside Al-Awda Hospital. Gaza’s Health Ministry stated the victims were journalists, but the Israeli military countered, claiming they were militants posing as reporters.

The situation remains highly volatile, with growing concerns about civilian casualties, the safety of humanitarian workers, and the broader regional fallout from the ongoing conflict.

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