In a startling development, Israeli airstrikes hit Yemen’s main airport just as a civilian aircraft carrying hundreds of passengers was landing, as confirmed by a top U.N. humanitarian official in Yemen.
The incident, reported by Julien Harneis, the U.N.’s leading humanitarian figure in Yemen, highlights the growing tension in the region. The airstrikes, which occurred on Thursday, not only endangered those on the ground but also a Yemenia Airways Airbus A320, which was maneuvering on the runway at the time.
Harneis, who was present at the airport with the WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, described the destruction of the control tower as the most alarming consequence of the strike. Despite the severe circumstances, the landing was completed safely, and passengers disembarked without injury. The proximity of the strikes—approximately 300 meters from the VIP lounge—added to the peril as parts of the U.N. team were outside during the attack.
It was a grave situation as the U.N. has not witnessed daylight airstrikes in Sanaa for some time, Harneis remarked via video conference from the affected location. The strikes resulted in at least three fatalities and numerous injuries, including severe harm to a crew member from the U.N. Humanitarian Air Service, who required extensive medical attention.
In the aftermath of the airstrikes, U.N. security successfully evacuated the affected personnel to safety. Harneis recounted that they took refuge in armored vehicles for about 40 minutes while assisting the injured before regrouping at a U.N. compound. The next day, the delegation, including the wounded member, departed to Jordan, even as the airport’s control tower remained inoperative.
The attack comes amid increasing hostilities involving Yemen’s Houthi rebels and Israel. Following the escalation of violence after October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, the Houthi rebels have launched more aggressive actions targeting Israel, prompting retaliatory measures from the Israeli military. Despite claims by Israel that the airport was utilized for military purposes, Harneis staunchly defended its civilian designation, emphasizing its critical role in humanitarian efforts and the transport of ill Yemenis seeking medical care abroad.
Yemen’s humanitarian crisis continues unabated, with millions in dire need of assistance. Harneis highlighted the continuous dependence on vital imports through Hodeida port, recently crippled by further airstrikes, which could have a catastrophic impact on the already vulnerable nation.
The airstrike on Sanaa’s airport underscores the ongoing volatility in Yemen, exacerbating the humanitarian challenges faced by its population. As tensions heighten between regional powers, the plight of civilians remains precarious, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and uninterrupted humanitarian aid.
Source: News4jax
