Since Israel launched its war on Gaza in October 2023, the Houthis have carried out several attacks on shipping lanes in the Red Sea, saying they were acting in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Israel has responded with repeated strikes on Houthi targets, particularly in Hodeidah, a key entry point for goods and aid into Yemen.

The port of Eilat, already diminished, could shut down entirely without government assistance in what would be a win for the Houthis, officials warn.

Israel struck Houthi targets in Yemen’s port of Hodeida on Monday, in retaliation for a series of missile volleys from the group over the last week.