Air raid sirens sounded across central Israel as Houthi missiles targeted multiple cities. The Israeli Air Force intercepted the threat prior to entering Israeli airspace. The Houthis claimed responsibility, stating the attacks were a response to operations in Gaza. Injuries were reported, and flights to Ben Gurion Airport were briefly diverted. International reactions have varied, indicating a broader geopolitical concern.

Early Thursday, air raid sirens echoed across central Israel as a missile attack from Yemen targeted several cities, including Tel Aviv, Rishon LeZion, and Jerusalem. This pre-dawn strike, which formed part of ongoing regional tensions, prompted many residents to seek shelter. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that the missile was intercepted by the Israeli Air Force prior to entering Israeli airspace, activating sirens based on established protocol.

The Houthis, a group from Yemen, claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting they had launched a “Palestine 2” hypersonic ballistic missile aimed at Ben Gurion Airport. Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree announced that the operation was a response to the casualties in Gaza, claiming that “the target was achieved.” Reports from Magen David Adom indicated that thirteen individuals sustained injuries while rushing for cover, with no further casualties reported.

Several flights bound for Ben Gurion Airport, including an Etihad Airways flight from Abu Dhabi and an El Al flight from London, were momentarily diverted due to the attack but have reportedly been cleared to land. Meanwhile, alerts disrupted a speech being delivered by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich in the Knesset. During the address, Sirens blared, and Knesset staff educated lawmakers about the situation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not present in the chamber during the event and sought shelter in a secure area. Afterward, he stated that “The Houthis are already paying—and they will pay more.” The Houthis indicated that their attack was a reaction to Israeli operations in Gaza, suggesting a potential expansion of their targets unless the fighting ceases.

In a strong statement directed at the Houthis’ benefactor, former President Donald Trump remarked, “Iran must stop sending these supplies IMMEDIATELY.” This condemnation indicates a desire for a swift resolution, asserting that the Houthis would inevitably lose in any conflict. Since October 2023, the Houthis have promoted these missile attacks as gestures of solidarity with Gaza, impacting global maritime trade and prompting vessels to avoid the Suez Canal.

Following the U.S. airstrikes, the Houthis declared they were in a state of war with the United States and warned surrounding Gulf states to remain neutral. The situation remains precarious, with Iranian officials reportedly urging the Houthis to de-escalate tensions. While initial U.S. military assessments suggested prolonged engagement, subsequent signals suggested that airstrikes would halt once the Houthis cease their aggressive actions.

The recent missile attack by the Houthis on central Israel marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, drawing attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. With the interception of the missile by the IDF and the subsequent injuries reported among civilians, the episode underscores the fragility of security in the area. Statements from international leaders exhibit varying perspectives on the situation, while the impact of these tensions continues to disrupt global maritime trade and provoke military responses from multiple nations.

Original Source: www.ynetnews.com

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