Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged a forceful response after a Houthi-fired missile struck near Ben Gurion Airport, Israel’s busiest international hub. The attack, launched from Yemen by the Iran-backed Houthis, briefly halted air traffic and injured six people, according to Israeli emergency services.
Missile Strike and Immediate Fallout
The missile landed near the main terminal of Ben Gurion Airport early Sunday morning, triggering air raid sirens across central Israel. Footage circulating online showed drivers pulling over to take cover as the projectile hit, leaving a large crater near a parking lot.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz responded with a stern warning: “Anyone who hits us, we will hit them seven times stronger.” Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, stating that Israel would retaliate against both the Houthis and their Iranian backers at a time of its choosing.
Houthi Threats and Regional Tensions
Following the attack, the Houthis declared their intent to impose a “comprehensive aerial blockade” on Israel, vowing to repeatedly target airports in response to Israeli military operations in Gaza. The group has previously launched missile strikes in solidarity with Hamas, though few have successfully breached Israel’s advanced air defense systems.
Israeli media reported that both the Arrow and THAAD missile defense systems failed to intercept the projectile, prompting an investigation into the failure.
International Airlines Suspend Flights
While Ben Gurion Airport has since reopened, several major airlines—including Lufthansa, Air France, and Delta—canceled flights to and from Tel Aviv, citing security concerns.
Netanyahu is set to convene top ministers and defense officials to discuss Israel’s next steps. With tensions escalating, the region braces for potential Israeli military action in response to the Houthi threat.
