Yemen Missile Launch Provokes Air Raid Sirens Across Central Israel

Houthi missile attacks have occurred for three consecutive days targeting Israel, causing air raid sirens to sound and leading to flight delays. The IDF intercepted the threats, ensuring no injuries occurred. Leaders have condemned the attacks, affirming that retaliation is forthcoming.

On Friday evening, air raid sirens were activated across central Israel and the West Bank due to a missile attack launched from Yemen by Houthi forces, marking the third consecutive day of such incidents. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that they successfully intercepted the missile outside of Israeli airspace, prompting alerts due to potential debris from the interception. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or property damage, as the Magen David Adom emergency service received no incident reports. Additionally, two flights arriving from Athens and Frankfurt encountered delays as they awaited clearance for landing at Ben Gurion Airport.

This missile strike was executed just one day after the previous Houthi attack, where the group claimed responsibility for launching a ‘Palestine 2’ hypersonic ballistic missile aimed at Ben Gurion Airport. Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree stated that “the target was achieved” and characterized the assault as retaliation against “massacres against our brothers in the Gaza Strip.” Several flights, including one from Abu Dhabi operated by Etihad Airways and an El Al flight from London, were forced to divert temporarily but were later allowed to land.

The missile attack coincided with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich delivering a speech within the Knesset during a crucial budget vote. As alerts were broadcasted on television, Knesset staff promptly informed lawmakers of the situation. Unaware of the events unfolding outside, Smotrich inquired, “How is it that we can’t hear anything?” before continuing with his address. Knesset protocol necessitates evacuation only when a specific alert is issued for the parliament building.

At the time of the assault, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not present in the Knesset chamber and subsequently sought shelter in a secure area. After leaving his office, Netanyahu commented on Channel 14, stating, “The Houthis are already paying — and they will pay more.” This incident marks the second Houthi missile attack on Israel within just two days. Furthermore, on Tuesday, a similar ‘Palestine 2’ missile was launched toward Be’er Sheva and intercepted over Saudi Arabia by the Arrow air defense system. The Houthis alleged that this attack was a response to Israeli military actions in Gaza and indicated their willingness to escalate the conflict by broadening their target list if hostilities continued.

The recent missile attacks from Houthi forces have raised security concerns across Israel, particularly impacting air travel to Ben Gurion Airport. While the IDF successfully intercepted the missiles, multiple flight delays and increased alerts were reported, highlighting the tensions in the region. Israel’s leaders, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, responded to the situation, emphasizing the need for vigilance and warning of potential consequences for the Houthis.

Original Source: www.ynetnews.com