Funerals Held for Journalists Killed in Yemen Airstrikes

Aden, Yemen, September 16 (AP) - A significant number of people gathered for funeral services on Tuesday to mourn 31 local journalists who reportedly perished in Israeli airstrikes last week. These airstrikes targeted Iran-backed Houthi rebels situated in Yemen's capital, Sanaa.

The attacks took place last Wednesday, following an incident where a drone, launched by the Houthis, penetrated Israel's advanced air defense systems and struck a southern Israeli airport. The impact of the drone explosion shattered windows and left one individual injured.

In Yemen, the airstrikes resulted in numerous casualties, with dozens reported dead. Among the deceased were several journalists, as the strikes hit various locations in Sanaa, including residential zones, a military headquarters, and a fuel station, according to the health ministry based in Yemen's rebel-controlled north.

The strikes also inflicted damage on the National Museum of Yemen, as noted by the rebels' culture ministry. Video footage from the scene depicted structural damage to the museum's façade. Additionally, a governmental facility located in Hazm, the capital of the northern Jawf province, was struck as well.

The Houthi-operated Al-Masirah TV covered the funerals on Tuesday, showcasing crowds inside a mosque and footage of caskets being carried for burial.

While many attended, the turnout was reportedly smaller than anticipated for such a "huge loss," likely attributed to heavy rainfall in the morning, as detailed by Khaled Rageh and Ahmed Malhy. Both men, who were present at the funerals, relayed the information via phone to The Associated Press.

Israel has a history of undertaking airstrikes in reaction to Houthi-launched missile and drone attacks directed at Israel. The Houthis assert their actions are in support of Hamas and the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.

For over 22 months, the Houthis have continued to launch missiles and drones towards Israel and have attacked ships in the Red Sea. They claim these actions are expressions of solidarity with Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. (AP)

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