Israel warns civilians to evacuate Yemeni ports ahead of potential strike

IANS May 12, 2025 153 views

The Israeli military has issued a critical warning for civilians to evacuate three strategic ports in Yemen controlled by Houthi forces. Tensions between Israel and the Houthis have been escalating since November 2023, with missile attacks and retaliatory strikes. The warning follows recent Israeli airstrikes, including a significant operation that disabled the Sanaa international airport. The ongoing conflict reflects the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, with the Houthis expressing solidarity with Palestinians.

"Anyone present at these ports is urged to evacuate" - Avichay Adraee, Israeli Military Spokesperson
Jerusalem, May 12: Israel's military issued an urgent warning, advising all civilians and workers to evacuate three Red Sea ports in Yemen controlled by Houthi forces, citing the risk of a possible new strike.

Key Points

1

Israel warns civilians to clear Yemeni ports amid rising regional tensions

2

Houthis continue missile attacks in solidarity with Palestinians

3

Israeli airstrikes target strategic locations in Yemen

4

Potential military confrontation looms in Red Sea region

In a statement on the social media platform X, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee identified the ports as Ras Isa, Hodeidah, and Al-Salif. "Anyone present at these ports is urged to evacuate and remain clear of the area to ensure their safety until further notice," Adraee said.

The warning follows rising tensions in the region and a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen, Xinhua news agency reported.

On Thursday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned the Houthis that they would "suffer heavy blows" if they continued their attacks on Israel, one day after the US announced it would halt its strikes on Houthi-related targets in Yemen.

On Friday, Houthi forces launched a missile at central Israel, which the Israeli military said was intercepted by its Arrow anti-missile defence system.

The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, have been targeting Israel since November 2023 in what they call an act of solidarity with Palestinians. The group has said it will cease the attacks if Israel ends its military operations and blockade of Gaza.

Israel has carried out multiple airstrikes in Yemen, including a major strike on Tuesday that targeted the international airport in Sanaa, rendering it inoperable.

Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments for the article:
R
Rahul K.
This escalation is worrying for global trade routes. The Red Sea is crucial for Indian exports to Europe and Africa. Hope diplomacy prevails before it affects our economy further. 🇮🇳
P
Priya M.
While Israel has right to defend itself, civilian safety must be priority. The warning is good but many Yemenis have nowhere to go. Complex situation needs UN intervention.
A
Amit S.
India should stay neutral but prepared. Our Navy must be alert near Gulf of Aden to protect Indian ships and crew. Remember how we evacuated citizens from Yemen in 2015 - Operation Rahat was brilliant!
S
Sunita R.
The cycle of violence never ends 😔 When will world leaders understand that military solutions create more problems? India's stance of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (world is one family) is needed now more than ever.
V
Vikram J.
Houthis shouldn't drag Yemen into others' conflicts. Their people have suffered enough from civil war. Focus on rebuilding your own country first instead of firing missiles halfway across the world.
N
Neha P.
Interesting how US stopped strikes but Israel continues. Shows who really calls the shots in that alliance. India must maintain independent foreign policy - we're not anyone's junior partner.

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Tags:
Israel Yemen Houthi Red Sea Conflict Military Tensions Gaza War Avichay Adraee