Yemen's Houthi Missile Hits Central Israel For First Time, Netanyahu Vows 'Heavy Price' For Strike

The Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen have launched a ballistic missile that hit central Israel for the first time. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised a "heavy price" for this attack. The missile, a new hypersonic ballistic type, travelled 2,040 km (1,270 miles) in just eleven-and-a-half minutes.

Initially, Israel's military reported that the missile had landed in an open area. However, they later stated it likely fragmented in the air, with pieces of interceptors falling in fields and near a railway station. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from this incident.

Air Raid Sirens and Public Response

Before the impact, air raid sirens sounded across Tel Aviv and central Israel, prompting residents to seek shelter. This event marks an escalation as previous Houthi missiles had not penetrated deep into Israeli airspace. The only other reported strike was near the Red Sea port of Eilat in March.

The Houthis have been targeting Israel in solidarity with Palestinians since the Gaza war began with a Hamas attack on Israel in October. In July, a Houthi drone hit Tel Aviv, killing one person and injuring four others.

Israeli Military Response

In retaliation for the July drone attack, Israeli air strikes targeted Houthi military sites near the port of Hodeidah. These strikes resulted in six deaths and 80 injuries among Houthi forces. The Houthis have warned of more strikes as the one-year anniversary of the October 7 operation approaches.

On the same day as the missile strike from Yemen, 40 projectiles were fired towards Israel from Lebanon. According to Israeli military reports, these projectiles were either intercepted or landed in open areas without causing any injuries.

The Houthis have indicated that further attacks could occur in response to Israeli actions against Hodeidah. This ongoing conflict highlights the increasing tensions and potential for further escalations between these groups.

This recent missile strike underscores the growing capabilities of Houthi forces and their willingness to use advanced weaponry against Israel. As both sides prepare for possible future confrontations, regional stability remains precarious.