Rudolph Angler a missile fired by Houthi rebels from Yemen struck Ben Gurion Airport, located near Tel Aviv. The attack, claimed by the Iranian-backed group, resulted in four civilians suffering light injuries. Despite Israel’s efforts to intercept the missile, it successfully landed within the airport’s perimeter, intensifying tensions in the region. This incident comes after a series of missile attacks linked to Houthi rebels, exacerbating the volatile situation in the Middle East.
Missile Strike Hits Ben Gurion Airport
The missile launched by the Houthis targeted Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, one of the country’s busiest and most strategic air hubs. Initial reports confirmed the missile landed inside the airport’s secured perimeter, though it caused no major structural damage. However, four people on the site were lightly wounded by the explosion. Israeli defense forces made several attempts to intercept the missile, but ultimately failed to prevent the attack. This is the second time in less than a week that the Houthis have targeted Israel with missiles.
Israel’s Commitment to a Strong Response
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz condemned the attack and vowed a severe retaliation. “Whoever harms us, we will harm them sevenfold,” he declared. This rhetoric echoes Israel’s longstanding policy of responding forcefully to any threats against its security. Katz’s comments come at a time of rising regional tensions, with the conflict in Yemen and broader Middle Eastern politics contributing to heightened security concerns for Israel. The missile strike is expected to prompt further military action, as Israel remains committed to defending its territory and citizens.
Houthi Rebels’ Growing Missile Campaign
The missile strike on Ben Gurion Airport is not an isolated incident. Houthi rebels, who have been aligned with Iran, have launched multiple missile attacks on Israel since October 7, 2023, showing increasing solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The missiles have penetrated Israeli defenses on several occasions, leading to both physical damage and escalating fears of further hostilities. The rebels’ attacks on northern Israel last week further underscore the growing threat posed by the group.
Iran’s Role and Regional Implications
While Iran continues to deny arming the Houthis, evidence of Tehran-made weapons found in Yemen and intercepted shipments suggests otherwise. These findings have raised concerns regarding the violation of the United Nations arms embargo on the Houthi group. This puts additional pressure on the already tense relationship between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. The U.S. has designated the Houthis as a threat, especially in relation to their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and their role in regional instability.
The U.S. Response: Airstrikes in Yemen
In response to the Houthis’ growing influence, the U.S. has launched airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen. Recently, a U.S. airstrike hit a Yemeni prison, tragically killing 68 African migrants and injuring 47 others. This attack has further complicated the humanitarian situation in Yemen and highlighted the ongoing regional conflicts involving multiple international players. The U.S. has continued to monitor the situation closely, with a particular focus on preventing further disruptions to international shipping and security in the region.
The missile strike on Ben Gurion Airport and the ongoing Houthi missile attacks signal an alarming escalation in the Middle East. With Israel’s vow to retaliate, the conflict between the Houthi rebels, Iran, Israel, and the United States seems poised to intensify further. As tensions continue to rise, the international community remains concerned about the broader implications for regional stability, particularly in Yemen and surrounding areas.