ballistic missile launched early Tuesday morning from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen was intercepted by Israeli air defenses before it could reach its intended target. The Iran-aligned militia claimed responsibility for the attack, which triggered warning sirens across central Israel and sent tens of thousands of civilians into shelters. No casualties or damage were reported. According to Houthi statements, the missile was aimed at Ben Gurion Airport.
Later in the day, a second projectile—also believed to be of Iranian origin—was launched but fell short of Israeli territory and did not activate sirens, as it posed no threat, according to the IDF.
The assault came less than 24 hours after another Houthi drone was intercepted over Israeli airspace. In response, the Israeli Air Force conducted a series of precision strikes on military infrastructure in the Yemeni port city of Hodeida. The IDF confirmed that the targeted facilities were part of the Houthis' operational network and had been used to coordinate attacks on Israel.
Military officials note that the Houthis’ advanced ballistic and drone capabilities are the direct result of weapons supplies and technical support provided by the Iranian regime. The IDF has emphasized that Iran’s influence and arms pipeline continue to fuel instability across the region, including along Israel’s southern front.
These latest events mark Israel’s thirteenth retaliatory operation in Yemen since the Houthis launched their campaign against Israel in late 2023. The group’s ongoing aggression has disrupted maritime trade through the Red Sea and escalated tensions between Iran-backed militias and Western-aligned nations. Although a ceasefire had temporarily halted attacks in early 2025, renewed conflict in Gaza has reignited Houthi hostilities.
Since March 18, more than 60 ballistic missiles and at least 15 explosive drones have been launched toward Israel from Houthi-controlled areas. The IDF reiterated its stance that it will continue to act decisively to neutralize threats and defend Israeli sovereignty from regional actors operating under Iran’s support.
