Lagatar24 Desk
Tel Aviv: A missile launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck Bnei Brak in the Tel Aviv district on Saturday, injuring 14 people after evading Israeli defense systems. The attack marks a significant escalation in tensions between Yemen and Israel, as the Houthis intensify their offensive in solidarity with Palestinians.
The Israeli military confirmed the incident, admitting that their defense systems failed to intercept the projectile. “Following the sirens that sounded a short while ago in central Israel, one projectile launched from Yemen was identified, and unsuccessful interception attempts were made,” the military said via Telegram.
Emergency services reported that 14 individuals suffered minor injuries, some while seeking shelter and others due to anxiety. This latest missile attack demonstrates the Houthis’ growing capability to strike Israel amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Houthi Rebels Pledge Continued Support for Palestinians
Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that it was carried out in solidarity with Palestinians. The group vowed to continue such actions until the blockade on Gaza is lifted. Since the escalation of the Gaza conflict over a year ago, the Houthis have launched several missile and drone attacks targeting Israel.
Although most previous attempts were intercepted, this incident highlights a potential vulnerability in Israel’s defense systems. In recent months, the Houthis have intensified their assaults, including a drone attack in July that killed one Israeli and a December 9 drone strike that damaged a residential building in Yavne.
Israeli Response to Houthi Aggression
Israel has responded to these attacks by targeting Houthi-controlled facilities in Yemen, including ports and energy infrastructure. Following Israeli airstrikes on Thursday, which reportedly killed nine civilians in Sanaa, Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Huthi condemned the actions, saying, “The Israeli enemy targeted ports in Hodeida and power stations in Sanaa, and the Israeli aggression resulted in the martyrdom of nine civilian martyrs.”
The ongoing exchange of attacks signals a widening of the regional conflict, raising concerns about further escalation as both sides remain defiant.
