On 17/8/2025, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced an operation targeting energy infrastructure operated by the Houthi armed group near Sanaa, Yemen's capital. The IDF stated the action was in response to Houthi missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) launches against Israel.

Israeli defense officials revealed the strike was carried out by Israeli missile boats. This is the second time the Israeli navy has attacked Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, the previous target being the port of Hodeidah.

The Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah television channel confirmed the same day that the Haziz power plant near Sanaa was attacked, disabling some generators. Local residents reported hearing at least two explosions in the Sanaa area.

The Houthi forces later announced the launch of a Palestine 2 hypersonic ballistic missile towards Tel Aviv, claiming the attack "forced millions of Israelis into shelters". The IDF confirmed intercepting the missile, with no casualties reported.

The Houthi armed group has controlled Yemen's capital, Sanaa, since 2014, opposing the internationally recognized government. Since November 2023, the group has attacked over 100 ships in the Red Sea to "show solidarity with the people in the Gaza Strip and protest against Israel".

In May, the Houthi forces reached a ceasefire agreement with the US after weeks of intense US airstrikes.

Houthi-controlled area in Yemen. Graphic: AFP

However, the group then only committed to not attacking US warships in the Red Sea, refusing to halt attacks on Israel and merchant ships linked to Tel Aviv. The group's latest statement appears to suggest it will resume attacks on US ships, nullifying the May ceasefire agreement.

The Israeli military responded by striking several Houthi-related targets in Yemen, including a series of attacks on the port city of Hodeidah and surrounding areas last month.

Nguyen Tien (According to Reuters, Times of Israel, Al Masirah)