The U.S. military has initiated strike against Houthi rebels in Yemen. The move comes after weeks of relentless attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea, attributed by the militants to supporting Hamas. The Houthis, who hold sway over much of Yemen, have vowed retaliation, heightening the risk of a broader regional conflict involving Iran-backed groups.
On Friday night, the U.S. conducted the strike against the rebels, as confirmed by two U.S. defense officials.
Meanwhile, Israel has announced a groundbreaking deal with Hamas to deliver essential medicine to hostages held in Gaza. Facilitated by Qatari officials, the arrangement, disclosed by the prime minister’s office, is set to see the distribution of medication in the coming days.
On a different front, Israel is currently defending itself at the International Court of Justice following South Africa’s claim that the war in Gaza constitutes genocide against Palestinians. Israel has vehemently dismissed the accusation as “atrocious and preposterous.” South Africa is urging the court to order an immediate cessation of the war, although a decision is anticipated to take weeks.
The toll of the conflict is stark, with over 23,700 casualties reported in Gaza since the war’s onset, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. More than 60,000 people have suffered injuries, and thousands are missing and presumed dead.
Israeli military sources reveal that at least 186 soldiers have lost their lives during the country’s ground invasion of Gaza. This incursion followed a series of multi pronged attacks by Hamas on Israel starting on October 7, resulting in 1,200 fatalities and around 240 hostages being seized.
