A ballistic missile launched from Yemen by the Houthi rebel group has struck central Israel, triggering air raid sirens and causing a fire. The attack marks a significant escalation in tensions between Israel and the Houthi-controlled government in Yemen.
The missile, believed to be a long-range ballistic missile, landed in an open area near the city of Modi’in, located just south of Tel Aviv. The impact of the missile caused a fire and triggered air raid sirens across the region, including in the Israeli capital.
Israeli military officials confirmed that the missile was intercepted by the country’s Iron Dome missile defense system. However, some debris from the missile and the interceptor struck the ground, causing damage and sparking the fire.
There were no immediate reports of casualties, but the incident caused significant disruption and fear among residents of central Israel. Many people sought shelter in underground bunkers or safe rooms as the sirens sounded.
The Houthi rebels, who have been fighting a civil war in Yemen since 2014, have claimed responsibility for the attack. They have accused Israel of supporting the Saudi-led coalition that is fighting against them in Yemen.
The attack on Israel comes amid growing tensions between the Houthi rebels and the Saudi-led coalition. In recent months, the Houthis have intensified their attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting oil facilities and other critical infrastructure.
The Israeli government has condemned the attack and vowed to retaliate. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called the attack a “serious escalation” and said that Israel will not tolerate threats to its security.
The attack on Israel has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region. The Houthi rebels have previously launched missiles and drones towards Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region.
The incident also highlights the ongoing conflict in Yemen, which has become one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The war has displaced millions of people and caused widespread suffering.
The international community has called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen and has urged all parties to de-escalate tensions. However, the prospects for peace remain uncertain as the fighting continues.
