The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed carrying out airstrikes against "military infrastructure" at the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeida in western Yemen between 1:17 PM UTC and 1:48 PM UTC on September 16th, 2025. The IDF stated the port is used by the Houthis to smuggle weapons from Iran, which are subsequently employed in attacks against Israel and its allies. These strikes follow repeated Houthi ballistic missile and drone attacks on Israel, with the latest occurring on Sunday. These confirmed strikes align with earlier reports and warnings issued by the IDF regarding imminent military action in response to Houthi activities. Evacuations at Hodeidah port were reported to be underway earlier on September 16th, following IDF Arabic-language spokesman Colonel Avichay Adraee's statement around 11:47 AM UTC urging immediate evacuation. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) also issued an advisory during this period of escalating tensions. An Israeli official cited in Hebrew media had previously indicated that the reported strikes aimed to disable Hodeidah port for several weeks. The IDF has a history of targeting Hodeidah Port in retaliation for Houthi missile and drone attacks directed at Israel.
