A ballistic missile launched from Yemen struck on Sunday morning near Israel Ben Gurion International Airport, causing significant disturbances and injured eight people.
The missile, driven by the Houthis rebels from Yemen, landed in the perimeter of the airport, damaging a road and a vehicle, and causing the temporary suspension of air traffic. Despite several attempts, Israel’s air defense system failed to intercept the missile.
The Houthis claimed the responsibility of the attack, declaring that it was in retaliation for Israeli air strikes at Sanaa airport earlier in the week. In a television statement, Houthi’s military spokesman Yahya Saree warned the airlines that Ben Gurion airport was no longer sure for plane trips.
The attack led to the activation of air raid sirens through the center of Israel, which prompted residents to seek shelter. Several flights have been canceled or reacted, and train services at the airport were temporarily interrupted.
The Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has promised serious reprisals, declaring: “Whoever hurts us, we hit them seven.” The Israeli government has summoned an emergency meeting to discuss potential responses, including military action against Houthi targets in Yemen.
The missile strike occurred a few hours before the Israeli ministers were to vote on the plans aimed at extending military operations in the Gaza Strip.
The current assault in Gaza has led to significant victims and trips, with more than 52,000 Palestinians reported.
The United States has also been involved in military actions against Houthis, making air strikes in Yemen in order to limit the group’s capacities. Despite these efforts, the Houthis promised to continue their attacks on the support of the Palestinians in Gaza.
