The US launched an air assault on several sites in Iraq and Syria used by Iran-backed militias. The attacks come in retaliation to the Drone strike that killed three US service members in Jordan.

Baghdad condemns US strikes on Iran-backed targets in Syria, Iraq | West Asia Crisis

US strikes Iran-backed targets in Iraq and Syria

On #ThisWorld with @VikramChandra: + This week, tensions rose between Iran and Pakistan as the two countries exchanged fire. + Iran struck Jaish al-Adl or 'Army of Justice' militant group in Balochistan, Islamabad said at least two children were killed in the strikes. + Pakistan retaliated by attacking 'terrorist hideouts' in Iran's border region. At least nine people died. What happens next?

This World: Is Pakistan going to war with Iran?

Turkey carried out another slew of airstrikes against Kurdish sites in northern Syria in response for the deaths of nine Turkish soldiers. The sites struck included military bases, arms depots and logistical warehouses.

Turkish air strikes hit 23 Kurdish militant targets Syria

Turkey carried out airstrikes targeting Kurdish militants in neighbouring Iraq and Syria on Saturday. This comes a day after an attack on a Turkish military base in Iraq killed nine Turkish soldiers.

Turkey launches airstrikes against Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria

A new airstrike hit the Yemeni Red Sea port city of Hodeida on Saturday (Jan 13), following two nights of attacks on the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. This comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent strikes by US and British forces on Houthi military sites.

<h2>Targeted strike on Houthi rocket launch site</h2>

A military source allied with the rebels, as reported by AFP,&nbsp;said&nbsp;that the strike targeted the site from which a Houthi rocket was launched on the outskirts of Hodeida.

The origin of the strike, whether from the sea or the air, remained unclear.&nbsp;

The ongoing conflict in the region has escalated with increased violence involving Iran-aligned groups in Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria. The recent events, triggered by the war between the Palestinian group Hamas and Israel, have drawn in various actors, adding to the complexity of the situation.

The Houthi rebels, expressing solidarity with Gaza, have intensified their missile and drone attacks on what they claim to be Israeli-linked shipping routes in the Red Sea.

Also watch |&nbsp;Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after strikes: US

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<h2>Strategic importance of Red Sea route</h2>

The Red Sea international trade route, particularly the Bab al-Mandeb Strait between southwest Yemen and Djibouti, is of significant global importance, facilitating around 12 per cent of global trade. However, recent Houthi attacks on shipping in the region have disrupted trade flows, contributing to concerns about rising global inflation amid existing supply chain strains.

Despite the strikes by US and British forces, which aimed to "de-escalate tensions," the Houthi rebels have vowed to continue their attacks.&nbsp;

As the situation unfolds, UN chief Antonio Guterres's special envoy for Yemen has called on all involved parties to avoid actions jeopardising maritime trade and fueling regional tensions.&nbsp;

The strikes and heightened tensions in the region have broader implications for global economic and security dynamics. Oil prices experienced fluctuations, rising initially due to fears of escalation before stabilising.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-red-sea-but-a-sea-of-blood-erdogan-lashes-out-at-us-uk-air-strikes-in-yemen-679562">Also read |&nbsp;Turning Red Sea into 'sea of blood': Erdogan lashes out at US, UK air strikes in Yemen</a>

Shipping companies, including Denmark's Torm, have halted transit through the Red Sea, reflecting concerns about the security risks in the strategic waterway. Regional leaders, including Saudi Arabia, have called for self-restraint and avoiding further escalation.

In response to the airstrikes, hundreds of thousands of people, some armed with Kalashnikov assault rifles, gathered in Yemen's capital Sanaa to protest. Anti-American and anti-Israeli sentiments were voiced during the demonstration, reflecting the complex political landscape in the region.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A new airstrike hit the Yemeni Red Sea port city of Hodeida on Saturday (Jan 13), following two nights of attacks on the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. This comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent strikes by US and British forces on Houthi military sites.

A new airstrike hit the Yemeni Red Sea port city of Hodeida on Saturday (Jan 13), following two nights of attacks on the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. This comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent strikes by US and British forces on Houthi military sites. Targeted strike on Houthi rocket launch site A military source allied with the rebels, as reported by AFP, said that the strike targeted the site from which a Houthi rocket was launched on the outskirts of Hodeida. The origin of the strike, whether from the sea or the air, remained unclear. The ongoing conflict in the region has escalated with increased violence involving Iran-aligned groups in Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria. The recent events, triggered by the war between the Palestinian group Hamas and Israel, have drawn in various actors, adding to the complexity of the situation. The Houthi rebels, expressing solidarity with Gaza, have intensified their missile and drone attacks on what they claim to be Israeli-linked shipping routes in the Red Sea. Also watch | Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after strikes: US Strategic importance of Red Sea route The Red Sea international trade route, particularly the Bab al-Mandeb Strait between southwest Yemen and Djibouti, is of significant global importance, facilitating around 12 per cent of global trade. However, recent Houthi attacks on shipping in the region have disrupted trade flows, contributing to concerns about rising global inflation amid existing supply chain strains. Despite the strikes by US and British forces, which aimed to "de-escalate tensions," the Houthi rebels have vowed to continue their attacks. As the situation unfolds, UN chief Antonio Guterres's special envoy for Yemen has called on all involved parties to avoid actions jeopardising maritime trade and fueling regional tensions. The strikes and heightened tensions in the region have broader implications for global economic and security dynamics. Oil prices experienced fluctuations, rising initially due to fears of escalation before stabilising. Also read | Turning Red Sea into 'sea of blood': Erdogan lashes out at US, UK air strikes in Yemen Shipping companies, including Denmark's Torm, have halted transit through the Red Sea, reflecting concerns about the security risks in the strategic waterway. Regional leaders, including Saudi Arabia, have called for self-restraint and avoiding further escalation. In response to the airstrikes, hundreds of thousands of people, some armed with Kalashnikov assault rifles, gathered in Yemen's capital Sanaa to protest. Anti-American and anti-Israeli sentiments were voiced during the demonstration, reflecting the complex political landscape in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Fresh airstrikes target Yemen’s Houthis amid escalating Red Sea tensions

The ongoing war initiated by Hamas has now entered its sixth day, and it doesn't seem like it will end soon. Following Hamas' surprise&nbsp;attack on Israel in the early hours of Saturday (Oct 7), Israel is now responding&nbsp;with robust retaliatory strikes on Hamas&nbsp;targets in Gaza, using warplanes to bombard buildings, leaving many urgently seeking safety.&nbsp;

In the face of this brutality started at the hands of Hamas militants, an intriguing aspect to consider is the recently constructed homes in Israel, equipped with a built-in shelter—a fortified safety room designed to protect against the threat of an airstrike.

Watch the video here:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelAtWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsraelAtWar</a> | Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas, bomb shelters are an essential feature in newly constructed Israeli homes. 
 
The shelters are equipped with essentials like electricity and Wi-Fi for comfortable stays during emergencies. 
 
Source: Howard Tobochnik <a href="https://t.co/kqYPd31xWu">pic.twitter.com/kqYPd31xWu</a>
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Throughout Israel, residents are using emergency shelters in their homes and public spaces as the war&nbsp;between Israel and Hamas intensifies. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-intel-searches-for-iranian-link-in-hamas-attack-on-israel-645243">Air raid</a> sirens, warning of rocket attacks, blare unexpectedly at all hours, granting Israelis just 60 seconds to find refuge.

Nina Slama, a resident of Ra'anana, shared with WION that there are numerous sirens in Ra'anana throughout the day, prompting people to immediately take refuge in the safe room.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"When the sirens sound, the goal is to quickly rush to the safe room," and they "must remain inside the reinforced shelter room for at least 10 minutes after the siren ceases. If the siren persists, we must stay there longer. While inside, we can hear the Iron Dome's interceptions. It is very&nbsp;stressful, as it resembles the sound of an&nbsp;explosion," she stated.

She also said that people in her locality are coming&nbsp;together to gather food and supplies for citizens and soldiers based in Southern Israel. Additionally, many families are also welcoming people&nbsp;from the South and organising blood donation camps.&nbsp;

WATCH: Israeli resident tells WION what it is like to live amid war

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While some shelters lack the capacity to accommodate individuals for extended periods due to the absence of toilets and water facilities, others are sufficiently equipped to sustain residents for days at a stretch.

A student from Rehevot (who chose to stay anonymous), told WION that "the structure itself can withstand rocket attacks and shrapnel from rockets.&nbsp;Typically, it is not stocked with food, but the government agency responsible for preparing people in emergencies, known as the HomeFront, issues warnings regarding the necessity to stock essential supplies."

"The room is furnished with an induction platform for cooking/microwaving and provides Wi-Fi. So, if necessary, you can stay in it quite comfortably," he said.&nbsp;

"There is one on every floor. In case you are away from the shelter you can call HomeFront and they will guide you to the nearest one. If driving, one needs to&nbsp;stop and lie flat on the floor," he added.

It has become customary for Israeli homes to incorporate these specially designed secure rooms following the introduction of a law in 1992 by the Israel Defense Forces' HomeFront Command, which established new civil defence regulations.

These regulations mandated the inclusion of a protected room in every newly constructed building, be it residential, communal, or institutional.

Tel Aviv resident Howard Tobochnik told WION that&nbsp;within these safe rooms, some resemble an extension of the home, occasionally resembling a living room or bedroom, while others are more sparsely furnished. "They typically feature steel doors with reinforced locks, concrete walls, and, if they have windows, they are constructed from shatter-proof glass," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-terrorist-kills-elderly-woman-family-finds-video-of-ghastly-act-on-facebook-645199">Hamas terrorist kills elderly woman, family finds video of ghastly act on Facebook</a>

However, Israel's safe rooms are not entirely foolproof in preventing break-ins, and they cannot safeguard citizens who are unable to&nbsp;access them quickly amid the ongoing conflict. Thus far at least 1,300 Israelis have lost their lives, with more than 5,000 injured since the surprise attack.&nbsp;

Gaza officials say death toll from Israeli airstrikes has reached&nbsp;over&nbsp;1,500.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The ongoing war initiated by Hamas has now entered its sixth day, and it doesn't seem like it will end soon. Following Hamas' surprise attack on Israel in the early hours of Saturday (Oct 7), Israel is now responding with robust retaliatory strikes on Hamas targets in Gaza, using warplanes to bombard buildings, leaving many urgently seeking safety.

The ongoing war initiated by Hamas has now entered its sixth day, and it doesn't seem like it will end soon. Following Hamas' surprise attack on Israel in the early hours of Saturday (Oct 7), Israel is now responding with robust retaliatory strikes on Hamas targets in Gaza, using warplanes to bombard buildings, leaving many urgently seeking safety. In the face of this brutality started at the hands of Hamas militants, an intriguing aspect to consider is the recently constructed homes in Israel, equipped with a built-in shelter—a fortified safety room designed to protect against the threat of an airstrike. Watch the video here: #IsraelAtWar | Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas, bomb shelters are an essential feature in newly constructed Israeli homes. The shelters are equipped with essentials like electricity and Wi-Fi for comfortable stays during emergencies. Source: Howard Tobochnik pic.twitter.com/kqYPd31xWu — WION (@WIONews) October 11, 2023 × Throughout Israel, residents are using emergency shelters in their homes and public spaces as the war between Israel and Hamas intensifies. Air raid sirens, warning of rocket attacks, blare unexpectedly at all hours, granting Israelis just 60 seconds to find refuge. Nina Slama, a resident of Ra'anana, shared with WION that there are numerous sirens in Ra'anana throughout the day, prompting people to immediately take refuge in the safe room. "When the sirens sound, the goal is to quickly rush to the safe room," and they "must remain inside the reinforced shelter room for at least 10 minutes after the siren ceases. If the siren persists, we must stay there longer. While inside, we can hear the Iron Dome's interceptions. It is very stressful, as it resembles the sound of an explosion," she stated. She also said that people in her locality are coming together to gather food and supplies for citizens and soldiers based in Southern Israel. Additionally, many families are also welcoming people from the South and organising blood donation camps. WATCH: Israeli resident tells WION what it is like to live amid war × While some shelters lack the capacity to accommodate individuals for extended periods due to the absence of toilets and water facilities, others are sufficiently equipped to sustain residents for days at a stretch. A student from Rehevot (who chose to stay anonymous), told WION that "the structure itself can withstand rocket attacks and shrapnel from rockets. Typically, it is not stocked with food, but the government agency responsible for preparing people in emergencies, known as the HomeFront, issues warnings regarding the necessity to stock essential supplies." "The room is furnished with an induction platform for cooking/microwaving and provides Wi-Fi. So, if necessary, you can stay in it quite comfortably," he said. "There is one on every floor. In case you are away from the shelter you can call HomeFront and they will guide you to the nearest one. If driving, one needs to stop and lie flat on the floor," he added. It has become customary for Israeli homes to incorporate these specially designed secure rooms following the introduction of a law in 1992 by the Israel Defense Forces' HomeFront Command, which established new civil defence regulations. These regulations mandated the inclusion of a protected room in every newly constructed building, be it residential, communal, or institutional. Tel Aviv resident Howard Tobochnik told WION that within these safe rooms, some resemble an extension of the home, occasionally resembling a living room or bedroom, while others are more sparsely furnished. "They typically feature steel doors with reinforced locks, concrete walls, and, if they have windows, they are constructed from shatter-proof glass," he said. Also read | Hamas terrorist kills elderly woman, family finds video of ghastly act on Facebook However, Israel's safe rooms are not entirely foolproof in preventing break-ins, and they cannot safeguard citizens who are unable to access them quickly amid the ongoing conflict. Thus far at least 1,300 Israelis have lost their lives, with more than 5,000 injured since the surprise attack. Gaza officials say death toll from Israeli airstrikes has reached over 1,500. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

What's inside Israel's safe rooms shielding people from Hamas airstrikes? Israelis speak to WION

In pics: Death and destruction in Gaza as Israel launches massive retaliatory attack

Turkish forces have conducted new air strikes in northern Iraq and destroyed 20 targets of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), its Ministry of National Defence says.

Turkiye strikes Kurdish militants in northern Iraq

Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Monday (May 8) that a major drug smuggler was killed in an airstrike in southern Syria. The war monitor attributed the airstrike to Jordan which has neither confirmed nor denied this.

Drug dealer "Marai al-Ramthan, his wife and six children were killed in a Jordanian air force strike" in the eastern countryside of the Sweida province, near the Syrian-Jordanian border, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.&nbsp;

"Ramthan is considered to be the most prominent drug trafficker in the region, and the number one smuggler of drugs, including captagon, into Jordan", said the Observatory, which relies on a wide network of sources inside Syria.&nbsp;

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi was asked about the airstrike by reporters.

"When we take any steps to protect our national security... we will announce them at the appropriate time," he said.

"Drugs... are a great threat to the kingdom, the region and the world as smuggling operations soar," Safadi said.&nbsp;

News agency AFP said that an investigation it carried out in November found that Syria has become a narco-state, with the $10 billion captagon industry dwarfing all other exports and funding both Assad and many of his enemies.&nbsp;

These narcotics are mainly smuggled to oil-rich Gulf countries, says AFP. But Jordan has also become a transit route for trade in the amphetamine-type stimulant.

An activist in Sweida province with knowledge of the local drug trade told AFP that "we expect to see a noticeable impact on smuggling operations from Sweida after the strike."&nbsp;

"No one could smuggle anything across the border without Ramthan's knowledge," he said, requesting anonymity for his own security.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-returns-to-arab-league-after-11-long-years-590000">Syria returns to Arab League after 12 long years</a>

The activist reportedly added that since the airstrike took place, some traffickers in the area have fled their homes.

The rare attack comes on the heels of a May 1 meeting of several Arab foreign ministers in Amman in which Damascus had agreed to "enhance cooperation" with countries "affected by drug trafficking and smuggling across the Syrian border", a Jordanian foreign ministry statement said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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&nbsp;

Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Monday (May 8) that a major drug smuggler was killed in an airstrike in southern Syria. The war monitor attributed the airstrike to Jordan which has neither confirmed nor denied this.

Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Monday (May 8) that a major drug smuggler was killed in an airstrike in southern Syria. The war monitor attributed the airstrike to Jordan which has neither confirmed nor denied this. Drug dealer "Marai al-Ramthan, his wife and six children were killed in a Jordanian air force strike" in the eastern countryside of the Sweida province, near the Syrian-Jordanian border, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. "Ramthan is considered to be the most prominent drug trafficker in the region, and the number one smuggler of drugs, including captagon, into Jordan", said the Observatory, which relies on a wide network of sources inside Syria. Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi was asked about the airstrike by reporters. "When we take any steps to protect our national security... we will announce them at the appropriate time," he said. "Drugs... are a great threat to the kingdom, the region and the world as smuggling operations soar," Safadi said. News agency AFP said that an investigation it carried out in November found that Syria has become a narco-state, with the $10 billion captagon industry dwarfing all other exports and funding both Assad and many of his enemies. These narcotics are mainly smuggled to oil-rich Gulf countries, says AFP. But Jordan has also become a transit route for trade in the amphetamine-type stimulant. An activist in Sweida province with knowledge of the local drug trade told AFP that "we expect to see a noticeable impact on smuggling operations from Sweida after the strike." "No one could smuggle anything across the border without Ramthan's knowledge," he said, requesting anonymity for his own security. Also Read | Syria returns to Arab League after 12 long years The activist reportedly added that since the airstrike took place, some traffickers in the area have fled their homes. The rare attack comes on the heels of a May 1 meeting of several Arab foreign ministers in Amman in which Damascus had agreed to "enhance cooperation" with countries "affected by drug trafficking and smuggling across the Syrian border", a Jordanian foreign ministry statement said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Airstrike kills major drug trafficker in Syria: War monitor

Five individuals were killed early on Sunday when an Israeli missile attack struck a building in downtown Damascus' Kafr Sousa neighbourhood adjacent to a sizable, well guarded security complex near Iranian sites, according to witnesses and officials.

Israeli airstrike inflicted heavy damage to residential buildings in Damascus

Taliban has condemned the killing of Al-Qaeda leader and Bin Laden's successor Ayman Al-Zawahiri, calling it a violation of international principles. WION's correspondent Anas Mallick brings more on this.

US airstrike kills Al-Qaeda chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri, Taliban condemns attack

Israel has carried out an airstrike on Syrian facilities. This is the third Israeli airstrike in one week. 5 people have been reported dead.

Israel strikes Syrian facilities: Third Israeli airstrike in one week

Russian troops escalated the offensive in the western part of Ukraine. Russian airstrike hit a Ukrainian military base that killed at least 35 people and left over 134 injured close to the polish border. The president of Ukraine has now issued a grim warning to the NATO members after this attack.

Zelenskyy warns of attack on NATO soil after Russian airstrike

Russia on Sunday (March 13) launched an attack on Ukrainian military training ground which is closer to Poland. The training ground is located in Ukraine's western city of Lviv.&nbsp;

Russia "launched an air strike on the International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security," the head of the Lviv regional administration, Maxim Kozitsky, said on his verified Facebook page.&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, we have 9 dead. 57 people were injured," Lviv's mayor, Andriy Sadoviy, wrote on Telegram. 
Some of the injured have been taken to Lviv hospitals, he said.

The military base in Yavoriv, located some 40 kilometres (25 miles) northwest of the city, was a training centre for Ukrainian forces with foreign instructors, including from the United States and Canada.

It was also a hub for joint exercises of Ukrainians soldier with NATO allies.

Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said "foreign instructors work here," although it was unclear whether any were present during the attacks.

Foreign troops left Ukraine shortly before Russian launched an invasion of its pro-Western neighbour on February 24.

The United States said on February 12 that it withdrew 150 of its instructors from Ukraine.&nbsp;

Reznikov condemned the bombardment as a "new terrorist attack on peace &amp; security near the EU-NATO border", calling for the imposition of a no-fly zone.

"Action must be taken to stop this. Close the sky!" he wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Sunday (March 13) launched an attack on Ukrainian military training ground which is closer to Poland. The training ground is located in Ukraine's western city of Lviv.

Russia on Sunday (March 13) launched an attack on Ukrainian military training ground which is closer to Poland. The training ground is located in Ukraine's western city of Lviv. Russia "launched an air strike on the International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security," the head of the Lviv regional administration, Maxim Kozitsky, said on his verified Facebook page. "Unfortunately, we have 9 dead. 57 people were injured," Lviv's mayor, Andriy Sadoviy, wrote on Telegram. Some of the injured have been taken to Lviv hospitals, he said. The military base in Yavoriv, located some 40 kilometres (25 miles) northwest of the city, was a training centre for Ukrainian forces with foreign instructors, including from the United States and Canada. It was also a hub for joint exercises of Ukrainians soldier with NATO allies. Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said "foreign instructors work here," although it was unclear whether any were present during the attacks. Foreign troops left Ukraine shortly before Russian launched an invasion of its pro-Western neighbour on February 24. The United States said on February 12 that it withdrew 150 of its instructors from Ukraine. Reznikov condemned the bombardment as a "new terrorist attack on peace & security near the EU-NATO border", calling for the imposition of a no-fly zone. "Action must be taken to stop this. Close the sky!" he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia conducts airstrike on Ukrainian military target near Poland, 9 dead

An air strike by the Nigerian army targeting 'bandits' has left seven children dead and five others wounded "by mistake" in the Maradi region of southern Niger.

Nigeria airstrike targeting bandits kills 7 children, injured 5

In form of support for the Houthis of Yemen, hundreds of protesters gathered in the capital city of Tehran to condemn the recent airstrikes on a prison in Yemen by the Saudi-led coalition.

Chants of 'Death to America' in Tehran as protests against Saudi-led airstrikes rage

At least 70 people were killed in an air strike on a prison and at least three children died in a separate bombardment as Yemen's long-running conflict suffered a dramatic escalation of violence on Friday.

The Houthi rebels released gruesome video footage showing bodies in the rubble and mangled corpses from the prison attack, which levelled buildings at the jail in their northern heartland of Saada.

Further south in the port city of Hodeida, the children died when air strikes by the Saudi-led coalition hit a telecommunications facility as they played nearby, Save the Children said. Yemen also suffered a country-wide internet blackout.

"The children were reportedly playing on a nearby football field when missiles struck," Save the Children said.

The UN Human Rights Office said the reports of intensifying coalition air strikes on populated areas were "deeply shocking".

Eight aid agencies operating in Yemen said in a joint statement they were "horrified by the news that more than 70 people, including migrants, women and children, have been killed... in a blatant disregard for civilian lives."

They said the prison in Saada was used as a holding centre for migrants, who made up many of the casualties.

But the United Arab Emirates insisted that it and other coalition members remained committed to "proportionate" responses to Huthi attacks.

"The coalition undertakes to abide by international law and proportionate response in all its military operations," UAE ambassador to the United Nations Lana Nusseibeh said.

The coalition attacks come after the Huthis took the seven-year war into a new phase by claiming a drone and missile attack on Abu Dhabi that killed three people on Monday.

The United Arab Emirates, part of the Saudi-led coalition fighting the rebels, had threatened reprisals.

Aid workers said hospitals were overwhelmed in Saada after the prison attack, with one receiving 70 dead and 138 wounded, according to Doctors Without Borders.

Two other hospitals have received "many wounded" and as night fell, the rubble was still being searched, the aid agency said.

"Horrific act"

Ahmed Mahat, Doctors Without Borders' head of mission in Yemen, said: "There are many bodies still at the scene of the air strike, many missing people."

"It is impossible to know how many people have been killed. It seems to have been a horrific act of violence."

The UN Security Council, meeting Friday at the request of non-permanent member the United Arab Emirates, unanimously condemned what it called the Huthis' "heinous terrorist attacks in Abu Dhabi... as well as in other sites in Saudi Arabia".

The coalition has been fighting the rebels since 2015, in an intractable conflict that has displaced millions of Yemenis and left them on the brink of famine.

The coalition claimed the attack in Hodeida, a lifeline port for the shattered country, but did not say it had carried out any strikes on Saada.

Saudi Arabia's state news agency said the coalition carried out "precision air strikes... to destroy the capabilities of the Huthi militia in Hodeida".

"Collapse of internet"

Global internet watchdog NetBlocks reported a "nation-scale collapse of internet connectivity". AFP correspondents in Hodeida and Sanaa confirmed the outage. Save the Children said it would hamper its operating capacity.

Yemen's civil war began in 2014 when the Huthis descended from their base in Saada to overrun the capital Sanaa, prompting Saudi-led forces to intervene to prop up the government the following year.

Tensions have soared in recent weeks after the UAE-backed Giants Brigade drove the rebels out of Shabwa province, undermining their months-long campaign to take the key city of Marib further north.

On January 3, the Huthis hijacked a United Arab Emirates-flagged ship in the Red Sea, prompting a warning from the coalition that it would target rebel-held ports.

And on Monday, they claimed a long-range attack that struck oil facilities and the airport in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, killing two Indians and a Pakistani, and wounding six other people.

The attack -- the first deadly assault acknowledged by the UAE inside its borders and claimed by the Huthis -- opened up a new front in Yemen's war and sent regional tensions soaring.

In retaliation, the coalition carried out airstrikes against rebel-held Sanaa that killed 14 people.

Yemen's civil war has been a catastrophe for millions of its citizens who have fled their homes, with many close to famine in what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

The UN has estimated the war killed 377,000 people by the end of 2021, both directly and indirectly through hunger and disease.

At least 70 people were killed in an air strike on a prison and at least three children died in a separate bombardment as Yemen's long-running conflict suffered a dramatic escalation of violence on Friday.

At least 70 people were killed in an air strike on a prison and at least three children died in a separate bombardment as Yemen's long-running conflict suffered a dramatic escalation of violence on Friday. The Houthi rebels released gruesome video footage showing bodies in the rubble and mangled corpses from the prison attack, which levelled buildings at the jail in their northern heartland of Saada. Further south in the port city of Hodeida, the children died when air strikes by the Saudi-led coalition hit a telecommunications facility as they played nearby, Save the Children said. Yemen also suffered a country-wide internet blackout. "The children were reportedly playing on a nearby football field when missiles struck," Save the Children said. The UN Human Rights Office said the reports of intensifying coalition air strikes on populated areas were "deeply shocking". Eight aid agencies operating in Yemen said in a joint statement they were "horrified by the news that more than 70 people, including migrants, women and children, have been killed... in a blatant disregard for civilian lives." They said the prison in Saada was used as a holding centre for migrants, who made up many of the casualties. But the United Arab Emirates insisted that it and other coalition members remained committed to "proportionate" responses to Huthi attacks. "The coalition undertakes to abide by international law and proportionate response in all its military operations," UAE ambassador to the United Nations Lana Nusseibeh said. The coalition attacks come after the Huthis took the seven-year war into a new phase by claiming a drone and missile attack on Abu Dhabi that killed three people on Monday. The United Arab Emirates, part of the Saudi-led coalition fighting the rebels, had threatened reprisals. Aid workers said hospitals were overwhelmed in Saada after the prison attack, with one receiving 70 dead and 138 wounded, according to Doctors Without Borders. Two other hospitals have received "many wounded" and as night fell, the rubble was still being searched, the aid agency said. "Horrific act" Ahmed Mahat, Doctors Without Borders' head of mission in Yemen, said: "There are many bodies still at the scene of the air strike, many missing people." "It is impossible to know how many people have been killed. It seems to have been a horrific act of violence." The UN Security Council, meeting Friday at the request of non-permanent member the United Arab Emirates, unanimously condemned what it called the Huthis' "heinous terrorist attacks in Abu Dhabi... as well as in other sites in Saudi Arabia". The coalition has been fighting the rebels since 2015, in an intractable conflict that has displaced millions of Yemenis and left them on the brink of famine. The coalition claimed the attack in Hodeida, a lifeline port for the shattered country, but did not say it had carried out any strikes on Saada. Saudi Arabia's state news agency said the coalition carried out "precision air strikes... to destroy the capabilities of the Huthi militia in Hodeida". "Collapse of internet" Global internet watchdog NetBlocks reported a "nation-scale collapse of internet connectivity". AFP correspondents in Hodeida and Sanaa confirmed the outage. Save the Children said it would hamper its operating capacity. Yemen's civil war began in 2014 when the Huthis descended from their base in Saada to overrun the capital Sanaa, prompting Saudi-led forces to intervene to prop up the government the following year. Tensions have soared in recent weeks after the UAE-backed Giants Brigade drove the rebels out of Shabwa province, undermining their months-long campaign to take the key city of Marib further north. On January 3, the Huthis hijacked a United Arab Emirates-flagged ship in the Red Sea, prompting a warning from the coalition that it would target rebel-held ports. And on Monday, they claimed a long-range attack that struck oil facilities and the airport in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, killing two Indians and a Pakistani, and wounding six other people. The attack -- the first deadly assault acknowledged by the UAE inside its borders and claimed by the Huthis -- opened up a new front in Yemen's war and sent regional tensions soaring. In retaliation, the coalition carried out airstrikes against rebel-held Sanaa that killed 14 people. Yemen's civil war has been a catastrophe for millions of its citizens who have fled their homes, with many close to famine in what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. The UN has estimated the war killed 377,000 people by the end of 2021, both directly and indirectly through hunger and disease.

At least 70, including women, kids, killed in Saudi-led airstrike on Yemen prison

The United Nations has condemned the deadly airstrikes in Yemen which has killed hundreds of people, including children.

Airstrike on a prison in Yemen: More than 100 people killed or wounded, including women & children

The United Nations has condemned the deadly airstrikes on a prison in Yemen which has killed hundreds of people, including women & children.

Saudi coalition denies responsibility for the deadly airstrikes on a prison in Yemen

At least 14&nbsp;people were killed in an airstrike on Tuesday carried out by Saudi Arabia-led coalition against Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The airstrike was carried out in Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital. The airstrike by the alliance came a day after an attack in UAE which was claimed by Houthi rebels. UAE is Saudi Arabia's partner in the coalition.

Three people were killed in the drone attack in Abu Dhabi, UAE on Monday.

The coalition also said it intercepted eight drones launched toward Saudi Arabia on Monday.

Early on Tuesday, the coalition said it had begun air strikes against strongholds and camps in Sanaa belonging to the Houthi group, Saudi state media said.

The strikes appeared to be the deadliest since 2019 on Sanaa.

The strike that killed&nbsp;14 people, according to initial estimates, was on the home of a former military official.

It killed him, his wife, his 25-year-old son, other family members and some unidentified people, a medical source and residents told Reuters.

Coalition strikes around the city had killed a total of about 20 people, the deputy foreign minister for the Houthi administration, which holds much of northern Yemen, said on Twitter.

Houthi-run Al Masirah TV said strikes had damaged houses, killed at least a dozen people and wounded about a dozen.

The UAE has armed and trained Yemeni forces that recently joined fighting against the Houthis in Yemen's energy-producing regions of Shabwa and Marib.

Monday's Houthi-claimed attack on two sites in the UAE set off explosions in fuel trucks, killed three people and ignited a blaze near Abu Dhabi airport.

In response, the UAE said it reserved the right to respond to "terrorist attacks and criminal escalation".

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 14 people were killed in an airstrike on Tuesday carried out by Saudi Arabia-led coalition against Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The airstrike was carried out in Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital.

At least 14 people were killed in an airstrike on Tuesday carried out by Saudi Arabia-led coalition against Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The airstrike was carried out in Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital. The airstrike by the alliance came a day after an attack in UAE which was claimed by Houthi rebels. UAE is Saudi Arabia's partner in the coalition. Three people were killed in the drone attack in Abu Dhabi, UAE on Monday. The coalition also said it intercepted eight drones launched toward Saudi Arabia on Monday. Early on Tuesday, the coalition said it had begun air strikes against strongholds and camps in Sanaa belonging to the Houthi group, Saudi state media said. The strikes appeared to be the deadliest since 2019 on Sanaa. The strike that killed 14 people, according to initial estimates, was on the home of a former military official. It killed him, his wife, his 25-year-old son, other family members and some unidentified people, a medical source and residents told Reuters. Coalition strikes around the city had killed a total of about 20 people, the deputy foreign minister for the Houthi administration, which holds much of northern Yemen, said on Twitter. Houthi-run Al Masirah TV said strikes had damaged houses, killed at least a dozen people and wounded about a dozen. The UAE has armed and trained Yemeni forces that recently joined fighting against the Houthis in Yemen's energy-producing regions of Shabwa and Marib. Monday's Houthi-claimed attack on two sites in the UAE set off explosions in fuel trucks, killed three people and ignited a blaze near Abu Dhabi airport. In response, the UAE said it reserved the right to respond to "terrorist attacks and criminal escalation". (With inputs from agencies)

At least 14 dead in coalition airstrike against Houthi rebels in Yemen

At least 108 civilians have been killed this month in a series of airstrikes in the war-torn northern&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;region of Ethiopia, the United Nations said Friday.

The UN also warned of a looming humanitarian disaster in the region, with its food distribution operations on the verge of grinding to a halt.

The UN human rights office urged the Ethiopian authorities to ensure the protection of civilians, saying disproportionate attacks hitting non-military targets could amount to war crimes.

Northern Ethiopia has been beset by conflict since November 2020 when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops into&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;after accusing the region's ruling party, the&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;People's Liberation Front (TPLF), of attacks on federal army camps.&nbsp;

"We are alarmed by the multiple, deeply disturbing reports we continue to receive of civilian casualties and destruction of civilian objects resulting from airstrikes in Ethiopia's&nbsp;Tigray&nbsp;region," rights office spokeswoman Liz Throssell told reporters in Geneva.

"At least 108 civilians have reportedly been killed and 75 others injured since the year began, as a result of air strikes allegedly carried out by the Ethiopian air force."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-raps-who-chief-for-supporting-rebellion-tigray-forces-444866">Also read |&nbsp;Ethiopia raps WHO chief for ‘supporting’ rebellion Tigray forces</a>

She detailed a series of airstrikes, including the January 7 attack on the Dedebit camp for internally displaced persons, which left at least 56 dead and 30 others wounded, of which three later died in hospital.

On Monday, 17 civilians were reportedly killed and 21 injured after an airstrike hit a flour mill, and on Tuesday, the state-owned Technical Vocational Education and Training institute was hit, reportedly killing three men, said Throssell.

Numerous other airstrikes were reported last week, she added.

"We call on the Ethiopian authorities and their allies to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian objects, in line with their obligations under international law," said Throssell.

"Failure to respect the principles of distinction and proportionality could amount to war crimes."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-temporarily-suspends-trends-feature-in-ethiopia-over-fear-of-violence-427199">Also read |&nbsp;Twitter temporarily suspends Trends feature in Ethiopia over fear of violence</a>

Meanwhile the UN's World Food Programme said its distributions were at an all-time low, with the escalation of the conflict meaning that no WFP convoy has reached the Tigrayan capital Mekele since mid-December.

"Life-saving food assistance operations in northern Ethiopia are about to grind to a halt because intense fighting in the neighbourhood that has blocked the passage of fuel and food," WFP spokesman Tomson Phiri told reporters.

"After 14 months of conflict in northern Ethiopia, more people than ever need urgent food assistance.

"With no food, no fuel, no access, we are on the edge of a major humanitarian disaster."

At least 108 civilians have been killed this month in a series of airstrikes in the war-torn northern Tigray region of Ethiopia, the United Nations said Friday. The UN also warned of a looming humanitarian disaster in the region, with its food distribution operations on the verge of grinding to a halt.

At least 108 civilians have been killed this month in a series of airstrikes in the war-torn northern Tigray region of Ethiopia, the United Nations said Friday. The UN also warned of a looming humanitarian disaster in the region, with its food distribution operations on the verge of grinding to a halt. The UN human rights office urged the Ethiopian authorities to ensure the protection of civilians, saying disproportionate attacks hitting non-military targets could amount to war crimes. Northern Ethiopia has been beset by conflict since November 2020 when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops into Tigray after accusing the region's ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), of attacks on federal army camps. "We are alarmed by the multiple, deeply disturbing reports we continue to receive of civilian casualties and destruction of civilian objects resulting from airstrikes in Ethiopia's Tigray region," rights office spokeswoman Liz Throssell told reporters in Geneva. "At least 108 civilians have reportedly been killed and 75 others injured since the year began, as a result of air strikes allegedly carried out by the Ethiopian air force." Also read | Ethiopia raps WHO chief for ‘supporting’ rebellion Tigray forces She detailed a series of airstrikes, including the January 7 attack on the Dedebit camp for internally displaced persons, which left at least 56 dead and 30 others wounded, of which three later died in hospital. On Monday, 17 civilians were reportedly killed and 21 injured after an airstrike hit a flour mill, and on Tuesday, the state-owned Technical Vocational Education and Training institute was hit, reportedly killing three men, said Throssell. Numerous other airstrikes were reported last week, she added. "We call on the Ethiopian authorities and their allies to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian objects, in line with their obligations under international law," said Throssell. "Failure to respect the principles of distinction and proportionality could amount to war crimes." Also read | Twitter temporarily suspends Trends feature in Ethiopia over fear of violence Meanwhile the UN's World Food Programme said its distributions were at an all-time low, with the escalation of the conflict meaning that no WFP convoy has reached the Tigrayan capital Mekele since mid-December. "Life-saving food assistance operations in northern Ethiopia are about to grind to a halt because intense fighting in the neighbourhood that has blocked the passage of fuel and food," WFP spokesman Tomson Phiri told reporters. "After 14 months of conflict in northern Ethiopia, more people than ever need urgent food assistance. "With no food, no fuel, no access, we are on the edge of a major humanitarian disaster."

At least 108 civilians killed this year in Tigray airstrikes, says UN

The airstrike on a camp for internally displaced people in Tigray has reportedly killed 56 people and injured dozens of others. This comes amidst allegations of the Ethiopian govt repeatedly targetting civilians.

Tigray: 56 people killed in airstrike on camp for internally displaced people

Israel launched an airstrike on the Syrian port of Latakia causing large explosions and fires. This is the second such attack that the state of Israel has carried out in Syrian territory in a month.

Israel airstrikes key Syrian port of Latakia for second time this month

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