Jerusalem — In a striking escalation of tensions in the region, militants in Yemen launched a missile toward Israel overnight, setting off air raid sirens across central Israel, including the bustling city of Tel Aviv. The incident occurred late Thursday night and was confirmed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in an official statement.
The IDF reported that the missile was successfully intercepted by the Arrow Aerial Defense System, which operates at high altitudes to neutralize potential threats. Witnesses reported hearing sirens followed by loud explosions as debris from the intercepted missile fell to the ground. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of casualties from the attack. In the aftermath of the missile launch, Israel's Airports Authority announced a temporary closure of Ben Gurion International Airport, impacting flights in and out of the nation.
The IDF is currently reviewing the specifics of the incident to determine the extent of the threat and to prepare for any further escalations. This latest missile attack is part of a series of aggressive actions by Yemen's Houthi militants, who have targeted Israel in recent weeks, claiming the strikes are in solidarity with the Palestinian cause amid ongoing conflicts. Since the outbreak of the Gaza war following a Hamas attack on October 7, the Houthis have demonstrated an increased willingness to engage in missile and drone strikes against Israeli territory.
Earlier this year, the Houthis made headlines when they launched a drone toward Tel Aviv, resulting in one fatality and injuring four others. In response to that attack, Israeli airstrikes targeted Houthi military positions near the port city of Hodeidah, causing significant casualties among the militants. As the situation unfolds, both military and civilian leaders in Israel remain on high alert, emphasizing the importance of the nation’s defensive capabilities in the face of persistent threats. The IDF continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring the safety of its citizens while preparing for possible future attacks.