A missile launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels struck the perimeter of Israel's main international gateway, Israel Ben Gurion Airport, on Sunday. The strike caused panic among passengers and led to a temporary suspension of air traffic.
The missile, which the Israeli military confirmed was fired from Yemen, reportedly left a deep crater in an open field near the airport's terminal and runways. Initial reports indicated that Israeli and US defense systems failed to intercept the projectile.
The Houthi Missile Hits Ben Gurion Airport event marked the first time a missile had landed so close to the airport's core facilities, according to the Israel Airports Authority. At least six individuals received treatment for light to moderate injuries.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation, stating on X that Israel would respond "at a time and place of our choosing." He also said on Telegram that Israel had acted against the Houthis before and would act again, promising "many bangs." Israeli Prime Minister shared his intentions.
The attack occurred hours before Israel's security cabinet was scheduled to vote on plans for an expanded military offensive in Gaza. Hardline elements within the cabinet have advocated for intensifying operations for months.
National security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for a "powerful" expansion of the conflict on Israeli Army Radio, stating, "We need to increase the intensity and continue until we achieve total victory." He also suggested bombing food and electricity supplies in Gaza, where a tight blockade has been in place for two months.
The Houthis, an Iran-backed group, claimed responsibility for the strike. They began targeting Israel and Red Sea shipping in late 2023, asserting solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. The group has demonstrated an ability to extend the range of their drones and missiles beyond 2,000 kilometers to reach Israel.
The persistent Houthi threat highlights the broader regional dimensions of the conflict. The group has proven difficult to deter, leveraging mountainous terrain and mobile missile launchers, alongside technological support from Iran. They have successfully resisted past military campaigns, including one led by Saudi Arabia in Yemen between 2015 and 2022.
Following the attack, several European and US airlines canceled flights to and from Tel Aviv for several days. Many carriers had only recently restarted services after temporary suspensions related to the conflict in Gaza.
The Houthis’ military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, said after the strike that Israel’s main airport was “no longer safe for air travel.”
