On August 17, 2025, the Israeli Navy conducted strikes on the Hezyaz power plant located near Sanaa, Yemen. The attack resulted in damage to the generators and caused a contained fire, as reported by Al Masirah TV, which is affiliated with the Houthi movement.
Yemen’s Deputy Prime Minister confirmed that emergency crews were able to mitigate further damage, while residents reported hearing two loud explosions. The Israeli military claimed that the site was being used by Houthi fighters but did not provide any evidence to support this assertion, raising concerns about potential war crimes.
The recent attacks are in response to Houthi missile and drone strikes on Israel that began in 2023, which protest Israel’s actions in Gaza. In retaliation, Israel has targeted vital infrastructure in Yemen, including the Hodeidah port and Sanaa’s airport, both crucial for humanitarian aid. Although most Houthi projectiles have been intercepted, the escalating exchanges have expanded the regional impact of the conflict in Gaza.
Israel confirms long-range strike on Sanaa power station
'IDF struck energy infrastructure used by Houthi terror regime… deep within Yemen'
Director of Yemen's Electricity Corporation says attack FAILED, electricity will be restored in 'few hours' pic.twitter.com/xexekY44Ut
— RT (@RT_com) August 17, 2025The US and UK have conducted airstrikes in Yemen in response to Houthi attacks on ships linked to Israel in the Red Sea, disrupting global trade. A truce in May 2025 between the US and the Houthis put an end to US airstrikes, which had resulted in over 250 casualties. However, this truce did not address Houthi operations against Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasised Israel’s independent approach to defence, highlighting ongoing tensions following the truce.
The attack on a civilian power plant, lacking evidence of military use, has faced criticism and heightened global concern. This incident could worsen Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, which is already under strain from Gaza-related tensions, and may lead to increased international scrutiny of Israel’s military actions.
