WHO Chief Narrowly Escapes Yemen Airport Attack as UN Condemns Israeli Strikes

Sanaa, Yemen:
World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus narrowly avoided harm on Thursday during an aerial bombardment at Sanaa International Airport in Yemen. The strike, which occurred as Dr. Tedros and his team were about to board a flight, resulted in the deaths of at least two people and injuries to several others, including one of the plane's crew members.

Dr. Tedros, who was in Yemen on a humanitarian mission to negotiate the release of detained UN staff and assess the health crisis, shared his account of the incident on social media:
"As we were about to board our flight from Sanaa, the airport came under aerial bombardment. One of our plane's crew members was injured, and at least two people lost their lives. The air traffic control tower, departure lounge, and runway sustained damage. My UN and WHO colleagues and I are safe, but our condolences go out to the families of the victims."

UN Condemnation of the Attack

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the airstrike, emphasizing the need to respect international law and protect civilians and humanitarian workers. In a statement, Guterres expressed alarm over the recent escalation between Yemen and Israel, calling the attacks "alarming."

He reiterated his call for all parties to cease military actions and exercise restraint, urging adherence to international law to avoid further civilian harm.

Details of the Airstrike

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed conducting airstrikes targeting Houthi military infrastructure in Yemen, including the Sanaa International Airport. According to IDF, the strikes aimed at facilities used for military purposes by the Houthis, including power stations and ports in Al-Hudaydah and Ras Kanatib.

The attack on the airport caused significant damage, temporarily halting operations. Reports indicate that at least three people were killed, with dozens injured in the strikes.

Humanitarian Concerns and Escalation

The attack highlights the growing tensions in the region, with escalating conflict between Israel and Houthi forces. The UN and humanitarian agencies have called for immediate de-escalation to prevent further loss of civilian lives and infrastructure damage.

As investigations continue, the incident underscores the urgent need for peace and stability in Yemen, a region already grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis.