Sana’a — Israeli intelligence sources have suggested that the Houthi Defense Minister, Mohamed al-Atifi, may have been among the casualties of a high-profile airstrike carried out by the Israeli Air Force in Sana’a on August 28, 2025. 

The operation, part of a broader campaign against Houthi military infrastructure, targeted senior figures accused of coordinating attacks on Israeli interests in the Red Sea region.

While the death of Houthi Prime Minister Ahmed al-Rahawi and Chief of Staff Muhammad al-Ghamari has been confirmed by both Israeli and Houthi sources, the fate of Defense Minister al-Atifi remains unclear. Israeli media outlets, citing military analysts and satellite imagery assessments, reported that al-Atifi was present at the targeted facility in Bayt Baws, a southern suburb of Sana’a, during the strike.

The facility was described by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as a command center for “terror operations and military buildup” linked to the Houthi regime. According to the IDF, the strike was part of Operation Lucky Drop, aimed at neutralizing key figures responsible for missile and drone attacks on Israeli and international shipping lanes.

Despite the ambiguity surrounding al-Atifi’s condition, Israeli sources have indicated that the strike inflicted “significant leadership disruption” within the Houthi military hierarchy. Regional observers note that al-Atifi has not appeared in public or issued statements since the attack, fueling speculation about his status.

The Houthis have not officially confirmed or denied his death, and no funeral or succession announcement has been made. Analysts suggest that the group may be withholding information to maintain internal cohesion and avoid further morale loss.

The August 28 strike marked a turning point in Israel’s direct engagement with Houthi forces, following months of escalating drone and missile threats in the Red Sea. The incident has intensified scrutiny of Iran’s role in supporting Houthi military capabilities and raised concerns about broader regional destabilization.