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Missile Fired from Yemen Targeted Israel, Intercepted by IDF
Yemen’s Houthi rebel group has announced the launch of a missile aimed at Israel, which has since been intercepted before reaching its destination. The missile was reportedly directed at Ben Gurion Airport, situated near Tel Aviv, as stated by the group’s military spokesperson during a televised address.
According to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), sirens were activated in multiple locations across Israel in response to the impending threat. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, and military officials confirmed that the missile was intercepted successfully within their airspace.
In parallel developments, Gaza’s civil defense agency, controlled by Hamas, reported that Israeli airstrikes conducted early Thursday resulted in the deaths of at least ten individuals. This escalation follows Israel’s expansion of ground operations in Gaza, which has been accompanied by airstrikes that, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, have claimed over 430 lives in just two days.
Reports indicate that the airstrikes on Thursday specifically targeted six residences in the eastern part of Khan Younis, resulting in numerous injuries among the local population, as stated by a Hamas civil defense spokesperson.
The IDF confirmed the interception of the Yemeni missile, stating, “A missile launched from Yemen was intercepted by the IAF prior to crossing into Israeli territory. Sirens were sounded in accordance with protocol.” This incident underscores the increasing tensions in the region and the complex interplay between various militant groups.
The Houthis, who are supported by Iran, have expressed intentions to retaliate against Israel in light of U.S. military actions undertaken against them recently. The group, which controls the capital Sanaa and other territories in north-west Yemen, is not acknowledged as the legitimate government of the country.
Identifying themselves as supporters of the Palestinian cause amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the Houthis reaffirm their position against Israel. This remark reflects the broader regional dynamics at play, as various factions align themselves based on geopolitical and ideological affiliations.
U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Iran regarding potential repercussions if the Houthi’s actions disrupt international shipping. In recent days, the Pentagon has reported conducting operations that targeted 30 locations in Yemen, marking the largest U.S. military engagement in the Middle East since Trump resumed office.
Earlier this week, the Houthi cadre attempted to strike the USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea following U.S. airstrikes in Yemen, illustrating the rising stakes in the Horn of Africa and Middle East territory.
The IDF has expanded its military presence, with operations extending into the Netzarim Corridor, a critical area that bisects the Gaza Strip. These renewed military actions signify the dissolution of a tenuous ceasefire that had been in effect since January.
In a related incident, the United Nations reported the deaths of two personnel, including one of its own staff, following an explosion within its compound located in Deir al-Balah.
The resurgence of violence can be traced back to the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and led to the abduction of 251 hostages, of whom 25 were released in the early stages of the ceasefire.
In response to these events, Israel has embarked on a significant military offensive resulting in more than 48,500 reported Palestinian casualties and extensive damage to essential infrastructure and housing in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
Source
www.bbc.com