Overnight (Thursday to Friday), the United States military launched a series of powerful airstrikes targeting Ras Isa, the main Houthi-controlled fuel port in Hudaydah, a strategic port city in western Yemen. This facility has long served as a key financial hub for the Iran-backed Houthi militia.
The targeted fuel terminal has been used by the Houthis to fund terrorist activity and generate illicit revenue.
الحوثيين المجرمين تحت نيران التحرير الولايات المتحده الامريكيه تطحن هولاء الارهابيين نطالب المقاومه اليمنيه ان تستغل الفرصه و تغتض على هولاء الأجانب و طردهم من اليمن pic.twitter.com/d32lBVOQpk
— hamid mutasher (@HamedMusher) April 18, 2025
14 Airstrikes by U.S. Fighter Jets
According to media outlets affiliated with the Houthis, U.S. fighter jets conducted 14 separate strikes. Initial reports indicate that dozens of militants were killed and hundreds were wounded. The Yemeni Red Crescent confirmed these preliminary figures, noting that the casualty count may rise.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) issued a statement declaring the strikes aimed to disrupt the Houthis’ economic capabilities, which have fueled over a decade of regional terror.
“The goal of this operation is to deprive the Houthis of illegal revenue that funds their military and terrorist efforts,” the CENTCOM statement said, adding that measures were taken to avoid civilian casualties.
CENTCOM further stated that fuel imported through Ras Isa has continued to benefit the Houthis, despite the group being designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) earlier this month. According to U.S. intelligence, the Houthis have obtained satellite imagery and intelligence through a Chinese company, which has enhanced their operational capabilities.
Missile Launched from Yemen Triggers Israeli Air Raid Sirens
Following the strikes in Yemen, air raid sirens were heard across Israel at 6:36 AM in Jerusalem, Gush Dan, the coastal plain, Sharon, Yarkon, Samaria, and the Judean foothills, due to the launch of a missile from Yemen toward Israeli territory.
The IDF confirmed that the missile was successfully intercepted, stating: “Alerts were activated in accordance with protocol.”
Magen David Adom (MDA) reported several minor injuries caused by individuals rushing to shelters. No direct hits were reported.
