Yemeni Expert Reveals Israel’s Gaza-Inspired Tactics Against Journalists in Yemen

Israeli airstrikes on two Yemeni newspapers, 26 September and Yemen, have resulted in the tragic loss of 32 journalists and media staff. These attacks, acknowledged by Israel, are viewed as deliberate efforts to silence the media and instill fear in the Yemeni populace, drawing widespread condemnation from analysts and human rights advocates.

In an exclusive interview with the Tehran Times, Yemeni journalist and analyst Abdulrahman Rajeh described the airstrikes as a grave violation of international law. He emphasized that these attacks targeted purely civilian locations, where journalists were fulfilling their professional duties, making them a clear example of a war crime.

“The areas hit were entirely non-military,” Rajeh said. “Journalists and media institutions have the right to protection under international law. Targeting them is a blatant attack on freedom of the press and a crime against humanity.”

Political Motives Behind the Strikes

Rajeh elaborated that the airstrikes were politically motivated, aimed at diminishing the voice of the Ansarallah movement. He pointed out that Israel seeks to create a climate of fear among the Yemeni population to intimidate both military and civilian supporters, effectively attempting to disrupt Yemen’s defensive operations.

“These are not isolated incidents,” he stated. “Israel has previously targeted civilian infrastructure in Yemen, including the ports of Hodeidah and Salif, power plants, and fuel stations, resulting in dozens of civilian casualties. The victims have never had any military affiliation.”

Parallels with Gaza

Rajeh drew striking parallels between the current situation in Yemen and the Israeli attacks in Gaza. He noted, “What we are witnessing in Yemen mirrors the events in Gaza: civilians and non-military areas are being extensively targeted, leading to massive casualties.” He emphasized that the assault on journalists is just one example of this inhumane strategy.

He warned that the global silence surrounding these attacks emboldens Israel to continue such illegal actions. “The pattern seen in Gaza has now been transferred to Yemen, demonstrating Israel’s disregard for international law and ethical norms,” Rajeh emphasized. “Israel wants to send a message that if we cannot silence your military, we will kill civilians in a horrific manner.”

Intimidation and Civilian Fear

According to Rajeh, the ultimate goal of these strikes is intimidation. “Israel wants to send a message: if we cannot silence your military, we will kill civilians in a horrific manner,” he explained. However, he stressed that such atrocities will not deter Yemen’s military operations. Instead, he believes these actions will strengthen public support for the Yemeni army and spur calls for decisive retaliation.

Solidarity with Gaza

Rajeh highlighted that public support for Gaza among Yemenis remains strong. “Gaza is truly isolated and without external support, which is why the Yemeni people feel deep solidarity with its population. The recent mass protests in Yemen, numbering in the millions, are unprecedented and demonstrate unwavering support for both Gaza and the Yemeni resistance.”

Impact on Press Freedom

Rajeh warned of serious implications for press freedom throughout the region. “Targeting journalists and independent media outlets threatens freedom of expression. Media organizations must not remain silent—they have a duty to report on these atrocities,” he pointed out.

He criticized international organizations and governments for their inadequate responses. “Had such an attack occurred elsewhere, immediate condemnation would follow. But silence over Israeli strikes on journalists in Gaza and Yemen encourages further inhumane actions,” Rajeh explained.

“Silence over Israeli strikes on journalists in Gaza and Yemen encourages further inhumane actions.”

Calls for Global Action

Rajeh called for international condemnation and accountability measures against Israel. “The global community must hold Israel responsible for this mass killing, which clearly violates human rights. Even if war cannot be halted, the world must make it clear that such practices are unacceptable in the 21st century.”

He also highlighted that the strikes targeted significant civilian infrastructure, including Yemen’s Central Bank in Jawf, the governorate and municipality buildings in Jawf, and the National Museum in Sanaa. “These attacks reflect a deliberate strategy to harm civilian and cultural institutions,” Rajeh lamented.

In conclusion, he urged media outlets worldwide to unite and amplify their voices in defense of journalists and press freedom. “This is the minimum action we can take to oppose such cruelty and to ensure that the victims’ voices are heard.”