Sanaa: An Israeli airstrike on Yemen’s capital has killed Ahmed Ghaleb al-Rahawi, the prime minister of the Houthi-run government, in the most senior loss for the group since the escalation of regional tensions.
According to Houthi officials, Ahmed Al-Rahawi was attending a government workshop in Bayt Baws, south of Sanaa, when the strike hit on Thursday. Several ministers were also present at the meeting.
Israel described the operation as a “precision strike” against a high-value military target, saying the Houthis continue to pose a threat through drone and missile attacks in support of Palestinian groups.
Ahmed Al-Rahawi, who was appointed in August 2024, led the Houthi “Government of Change and Construction.” While his role was seen as largely political, analysts say his death marks a serious blow to the group’s leadership.
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Following his death, Mohamed Moftah, the deputy prime minister, has been named as acting head of government. Senior Houthi leader Mahdi al-Mashat vowed retaliation, urging fighters to intensify operations against Israel.
The strike highlights a shift in Israel’s strategy, moving from targeting infrastructure and weapon depots to directly hitting Houthi leadership. The development comes amid ongoing clashes in the Red Sea and escalating tensions tied to the war in Gaza.
