Yemenis mourn slain Houthi officials
Israeli strike kills prime minister al-Rahawi and ministers
Hundreds of Yemenis gathered in Sanaa to mourn the death of Houthi Prime Minister Ahmed al-Rahawi and several officials, who were reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike. The attack occurred shortly after the Houthis launched a ballistic missile toward Israel, marking a significant escalation in hostilities. The funeral, held at Shaab Mosque and broadcast by Al-Masirah TV, saw attendees chanting against Israel and the United States as they honored the deceased officials, including ministers of foreign affairs, media, and culture.
The Israeli military confirmed targeting senior Houthi officials, including al-Rahawi, as part of an ongoing campaign against the group. The funeral featured 11 coffins wrapped in Yemeni flags, with families of the slain officials arriving in ambulances. Attendees expressed their outrage, with one participant stating that the killings justified their presence at the funeral.
Acting Houthi Prime Minister Mohamed Muftah addressed the crowd, emphasizing the broader implications of the conflict, which he described as not only military but also economic, due to Israel's actions. He reassured attendees that Yemeni ports remain operational and that there is no food or fuel crisis despite the attacks.
In a related development, the Houthis claimed responsibility for launching a missile at an oil tanker off the coast of Saudi Arabia, alleging it had ties to Israel. The vessel, identified as the Liberian-flagged Scarlet Ray, was reported to be undamaged and its crew safe.
The Houthis have intensified their missile and drone attacks on Israel and maritime targets in the Red Sea, framing their actions as solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This resurgence of hostilities has disrupted shipping in the Red Sea, a vital global trade route.
