Yemen’s Houthi movement has announced that it successfully launched a ballistic missile targeting Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, coinciding with the arrival of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the country’s main international hub.
This missile strike marks a significant escalation in hostilities, highlighting the ongoing conflict in the region and the Houthis’ capability to reach deep into Israeli territory.
The Houthis claimed to have fired what they described as a “hypersonic” ballistic missile, asserting that it traveled approximately 2,040 kilometers (1,260 miles) from Yemen to Israel in just 11 minutes. However, Israeli officials disputed this characterization, stating that the missile did not demonstrate hypersonic capabilities and was intercepted before causing significant damage.
The missile reportedly landed in an open area near Ben Gurion Airport, triggering air raid sirens and prompting panic among residents and travelers. Initial reports indicated that nine people sustained minor injuries due to falling debris from interceptors used by Israeli defense systems. Fires were also reported in nearby areas, including Kfar Daniel.
This missile strike follows a series of escalating tensions in the region, particularly after the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The Houthis issued statements emphasizing their solidarity with Palestinian groups and vowing to continue their military operations against Israel until its aggression in Gaza and Lebanon ceases.
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree stated, “The resistance will not be broken, and the jihadist spirit of the mujahideen brothers in Lebanon and on all fronts of support will grow stronger.”
In response to the attack, Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the missile launch as part of a broader threat posed by Iran and its allies in the region. He warned that the Houthis would pay a “heavy price” for their actions and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to defending its territory against external threats.
The missile strike has raised alarms among regional powers and allies of Israel, including the United States. The U.S. has been closely monitoring developments in Yemen and has reiterated its support for Israel amidst growing concerns about Iranian influence in the region.
The Houthis have increasingly targeted Israeli interests since the outbreak of hostilities between Hamas and Israel on October 7, 2023. Their military capabilities have reportedly improved, with claims of launching over 220 missiles, drones, and other attacks on vessels linked to Israel in recent months on the Red Sea.
The ongoing conflict has seen various militant groups in the region aligning against Israel, with Iran providing support to factions such as Hezbollah and the Houthis.