Last Plane at Sanaa Airport Destroyed in Israeli Strikes, Escalating Yemen Conflict
Sanaa, Yemen – In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict in Yemen, Israeli air strikes have reportedly destroyed the last operational aircraft at Sanaa International Airport. This follows a previous attack weeks earlier that already caused substantial damage to the airport’s aviation infrastructure. The claims were made by both Israeli officials and a Yemeni government source on Wednesday, further deepening the complexities of the already precarious humanitarian situation.
The destruction of the final plane effectively cripples any remaining capacity for air travel in and out of the rebel-held capital. Sanaa airport, crucial for delivering vital aid and facilitating the movement of personnel, has been a frequent target in the years-long conflict between the Yemeni government, backed by a Saudi-led coalition, and the Houthi rebels.
While Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for the strikes, a statement from an Israeli official confirmed the operation, citing concerns over the airport's use for Iranian-backed Houthi activities. This latest action underscores Israel’s increasing involvement, albeit indirect, in the regional power struggles playing out in Yemen.
The Yemeni official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the destruction of the plane and expressed grave concerns about the impact on humanitarian efforts. “This will severely hamper our ability to receive essential supplies and medical aid,” the official stated. “The international community needs to intervene to protect civilian lives and ensure the unimpeded flow of humanitarian assistance.”
Impact on Humanitarian Crisis: The destruction of the airport’s aviation capabilities poses a dire threat to the already fragile humanitarian situation in Yemen. The country is facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with millions of people on the brink of famine. The disruption to air travel will make it significantly harder to deliver food, medicine, and other essential supplies to those in need.
Regional Implications: This incident further complicates the already volatile geopolitical landscape of the region. The involvement of Israel, even in an indirect capacity, raises concerns about the potential for broader escalation. The Houthis, who have been engaged in a protracted conflict with Saudi Arabia and its allies, are likely to view this as a provocation and could retaliate, potentially targeting Israeli interests or those of its allies.
International Response: The international community has condemned the violence and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. However, efforts to broker a lasting peace agreement have so far been unsuccessful. The destruction of the last plane at Sanaa airport serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a diplomatic solution to end the conflict and alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people. The United Nations has urged all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and to ensure the unimpeded access of humanitarian organizations.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days and weeks. The focus now shifts to whether this latest escalation will prompt a renewed push for peace talks or further exacerbate the conflict, plunging Yemen deeper into crisis.