- Israel intercepts ballistic missile launched from Yemen.
- Houthis claim missile targeted Ben Gurion Airport.
- Tensions rise as cross-border attacks intensify.
The Israeli military on Thursday confirmed that its air force intercepted a ballistic missile launched from Yemen in the early hours of the morning.
According to military officials, the missile was detected shortly after 4 a.m. and destroyed before it could pose any danger, with no air-raid sirens activated as it was not projected to hit populated areas.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for the launch, stating through Reuters that the weapon was a “Palestine 2 hypersonic ballistic missile” aimed at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport.
While the Israeli military confirmed the interception, it did not verify the Houthis’ claim about the intended target.
The launch is the latest in a series of cross-border attacks that have escalated since October 2023, following Hamas’ assault on Israel.
Houthis have repeatedly used drones and missiles in what they describe as acts of solidarity with Palestinians. Hostilities briefly halted during a Gaza ceasefire but resumed in March after the truce collapsed.
Israel has faced several high-profile missile strikes over the past year. On May 4, 2025, a Houthi missile struck near Ben Gurion Airport after evading interception, injuring eight people and disrupting flights for days.
In December 2024, another “Palestine 2” missile hit a playground in Tel Aviv, wounding at least 16 and exposing gaps in Israel’s defense systems.
In response, Israel has intensified military operations, including its first naval strike in June 2025 on the Houthi-controlled port city of Hodeidah, which it described as a hub for weapons smuggling.
The latest interception highlights growing concerns over Yemen-based militants’ ability to target deep inside Israeli territory, complicating both security and diplomatic strategies in the region.
