Israel has launched airstrikes on Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen for the first time since its ceasefire deal with Iran, targeting Red Sea ports and a key power facility in a major escalation of regional tensions.

The overnight strikes, carried out from Sunday into Monday, were aimed at the ports of Hodeida, Ras Isa, Salif, and the Ras Kanatib power station. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the operation was in response to at least three ballistic missiles fired at Israel by the Houthis following the truce, including one that was intercepted on Saturday.

A notable target was the Galaxy Leader, a commercial vessel that had been seized by the Houthis in November 2023. According to the IDF, radar systems had been mounted on the ship to track maritime activity and assist in planning further attacks.

Ahead of the strikes, IDF spokesperson Avichay Adraee issued a warning in Arabic urging civilians to leave the targeted sites, including the ports and power plant.

Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said the air raids marked the start of a new military operation named Operation Black Flag. He warned that “the Houthis will pay a heavy price” if they continue launching drones and missiles at Israeli territory.

The Houthi side confirmed the strikes, stating that Yemen’s air defenses responded by firing a wave of domestically made surface-to-air missiles. No casualties had been reported as of the time of reporting.

Houthi political bureau official Mohammed Al Farah condemned the attacks during a broadcast on the group’s Al-Masirah TV, accusing Israel of “targeting civilian infrastructure under the guise of military operations.”

The strikes come as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits Washington for talks with U.S. President Donald Trump.

Since Israel’s war with Hamas began in October 2023, the Houthis—who are backed by Iran—have declared support for Palestinians and have stepped up attacks, including launching drones and missiles toward Israel and disrupting shipping in the Red Sea.

Earlier this year in March, the United States also carried out extensive airstrikes on Houthi positions to weaken their ability to threaten vessels in the region.