Israeli warplanes bombed Yemen’s Sana International Airport for the second time this month, targeting what it said was the final operational aircraft used by the Iran-aligned Houthi authorities, following a wave of missile launches at Israel.

The strike comes amid escalating tit-for-tat hostilities. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the airstrike, saying the destroyed plane was the Houthis’ last aircraft at the Sana airport.

“They destroyed it entirely,”

Sana’a Airport Director Khaled al-Shaief

Earlier this month, a Houthi missile landed near Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, prompting temporary airline suspensions and raising alarm about the group’s extended reach.

Sana International Airport, a vital corridor for humanitarian aid, medical evacuations, and supplies, has served over 20 million people living in Houthi-controlled northern Yemen. Its destruction has sparked concern among aid organizations as the country faces continued food insecurity and limited access to international assistance.

The airport was already rendered inoperable following a May 6 Israeli strike. The second attack confirms a strategy of prolonged denial of air access to the Houthis.

Netanyahu Links Houthis to Iran, Hints at Broader Conflict

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacks from Yemen are not isolated, blaming Tehran. “The main force behind them is Iran, and it is responsible for the aggression emanating from Yemen,” he said.

President Donald Trump recently declared an end to American airstrikes on Yemen, saying the Houthis “don’t want to fight anymore,” though he gave no details about a possible truce.

In response, Houthi official Mohammed al-Bukhaiti said the group would halt attacks on U.S. forces if the bombings ceased—but vowed to continue operations against Israel in “support of Gaza.”