Following the IDF operation in Yemen, IDF Spokesperson, Daniel Hagari addressed the attack saying, "Tonight's air force strike on Hudaydah's seaport in Yemen underscores its international significance and the meticulous planning involved. Approximately 20 aircraft participated in the operation, supported by mid-air refuelling, to deliver dozens of tons of explosives over a distance of 1,800 km.
"In recent months, Iran-backed Houthis have launched nearly 200 aerial threats towards Israel using Iranian anti-aircraft missiles. Friday's unmanned aerial vehicle attack tragically claimed the life of Yevgeni Parder. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family.
"Most of these threats have been successfully intercepted or neutralized by an international coalition led by CENTCOM and IDF forces across air, sea, and land. Our defensive and offensive strategies have been bolstered across all sectors, guided by the Home Front Command's directives.
"Tonight's attack on Hudaydah's port was aimed at disrupting the flow of Iranian weapons and targeting dual-use infrastructure used by Houthi terrorists, including energy facilities. This operation, among the Israeli Air Force's longest and most complex, required extensive preparation to mitigate potential threats in the region."
Hagari continued "Israel's actions are squarely against Houthi terrorism, not the Yemeni people. The Houthis' activities, directed and funded by Iran, have disrupted global trade routes and endangered maritime security, including the Suez Canal.
"We call upon nations affected by Iran-backed Houthi terrorism to unite against this common threat. Over the past nine months, we have actively defended against various threats in multiple arenas, intercepting hundreds of potential threats, primarily beyond our borders.
"Our dedicated fighters, pilots, and naval forces, supported by air defence units, remain steadfast in defending our country. Tonight's operation marks a continuation of our efforts against Iranian-sponsored terrorism across our borders and beyond."
This statement emphasizes Israel's strategic objectives, commitment to regional security, and the ongoing challenges posed by Iran-backed terrorism.