Platforms Condemn Israeli Airstrikes on Yemen Amid Geopolitical Tensions
On December 19, 2024, Israel launched airstrikes on Yemen, targeting military sites associated with the Ansar Allah group, commonly known as the Houthis. The Israeli military claimed the strikes aimed at ports and energy infrastructure in the capital, Sanaa, alleging that these facilities were being used to support Houthi military operations against Israel. According to Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari, the attacks involved 14 fighter jets and were planned weeks in advance, covering over 2,000 kilometers with the assistance of refueling and reconnaissance aircraft.
The Houthi-affiliated media confirmed the strikes, reporting that key locations such as the port of Al-Salif, the Ras Issa oil facility, and the Dhahban central power station were hit. Casualty reports from the Houthi side indicated that the raids resulted in nine deaths and three injuries, prompting Houthi leaders to label the attacks as “condemned terrorist war crimes.” They emphasized that such actions would not deter Yemen from supporting Gaza.
Social media platforms saw significant interaction regarding the Israeli airstrikes, with users expressing concern over the implications of these actions. One user highlighted that the targeting of Yemen was part of a broader geopolitical strategy aimed at controlling sea lanes and destabilizing key countries in the region. Another user voiced solidarity with Gaza, asserting that the Israeli and American actions were designed to weaken the Yemeni people.
The Israeli strikes occurred shortly after the Israeli military intercepted a missile fired from Yemen, which exploded near a school in Ramat Gan, causing damage and prompting citizens to seek shelter. In response, Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree claimed that the Houthis had targeted sensitive military sites in Israel with hypersonic ballistic missiles.
This escalation of military actions raises concerns about the ongoing conflict in the region and the potential for further geopolitical ramifications, as various parties react to the unfolding situation.