Israeli Strike on Yemen’s Hodeida Port Causes $20 Million in Damage
An Israeli strike on Yemen’s Houthi-held Hodeida port has resulted in at least $20 million in damage, adding to the losses caused by the destruction of fuel storage facilities, according to a port official. The attack, which took place on July 20, destroyed most of the port’s oil storage capacity and triggered a massive inferno that burned for days. This marks the first attack ever claimed by Israel on Yemen, coming a day after a deadly Houthi attack on Israel.
Preliminary damage assessments reveal that two cranes were destroyed, a small vessel was burnt, and several buildings were torched. Additionally, there is damage to the docks, according to Nasr Al-Nusairi, the vice president of the Yemen Red Sea Ports Corporation, which operates the Hodeida harbor. The estimated cost of the port damage exceeds $20 million, although this figure does not include the losses incurred by the destruction of fuel storage facilities, which falls under the responsibility of the oil ministry.
Despite the significant damage, the port was able to resume operations quickly after the temporary interruption caused by the attack. Three days after the Israeli raid, the first two container ships docked in Hodeida, according to Houthi officials. An AFP photographer who toured the area on Sunday confirmed that the port appeared to be operational, with container ships anchored on its docks and workers unloading containers using cranes.
The Houthi militia has been launching attacks on ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden since November. They claim that these attacks are a show of solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza war. However, the Israeli strike on Hodeida marks a significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and the Houthis.
The attack on Hodeida’s port has not only caused extensive damage but has also raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Yemen. The port is a vital lifeline for the country, as it is the main entry point for humanitarian aid and commercial goods. The destruction of the port’s oil storage capacity further exacerbates the fuel crisis in Yemen, where millions of people are already facing severe shortages of essential goods and services.
The international community has condemned the attack and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the impact of the attack on the humanitarian situation in Yemen and has called for unrestricted access to the port to ensure the delivery of aid to those in need.
The Israeli strike on Hodeida’s port highlights the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict in Yemen. The involvement of regional and international actors, such as Israel and Iran, further complicates the situation and increases the risk of further escalation. It is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the protection of civilians and to work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
In conclusion, the Israeli strike on Yemen’s Hodeida port has caused significant damage, estimated to exceed $20 million. The destruction of the port’s oil storage capacity and the resulting fuel crisis further worsen the humanitarian situation in Yemen. The international community has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and unrestricted access to the port to ensure the delivery of aid. It is essential for all parties involved to prioritize the well-being of civilians and work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict.