An Israeli strike in Sanaa was reported to have killed the Houthi movement’s prime minister along with several senior officials, marking one of the most consequential blows to the Iran-backed group since it entrenched control over parts of Yemen. Initial reports on Sunday, August 31, 2025, said the attack hit a high-level meeting in the capital and left the rebel leadership scrambling to assess casualties and continuity of command. The development followed months of Houthi missile and drone launches toward Israel and attacks on maritime targets in regional shipping lanes.
Regional outlets noted that the strike focused on command-and-control nodes used to coordinate operations against Israel and international shipping. Houthi channels vowed retaliation and framed the incident as further proof of outside interference in Yemen’s civil conflict, even as local authorities moved quickly to restrict access to the blast zone. Emergency services evacuated the wounded while security forces attempted to cordon off the area amid concerns of additional strikes. Foreign missions in Sanaa urged caution to staff and local partners after the explosion.
In Jerusalem, officials kept public comments restrained but underscored Israel’s right to defend itself from cross-border aggression. The incident immediately raised questions about the Houthis’ capacity to sustain their aerial and maritime threat following the reported deaths of top decision-makers. Observers said the coming days would clarify whether the group’s military tempo can be maintained or whether internal rivalries and succession disputes would slow further escalation.
(TOI/VFI News)
“Lord, we ask for Your protection over Israel and all civilians across the region. Shield communities from retaliation, frustrate the plans of those who seek harm, and grant wisdom and restraint to leaders on every side. May peace take root where violence has long prevailed, and may You bring deliverance to those living under terror.”
Originally posted on vfinews.com
