Missile Fired from Yemen Lands in Central Israel, No Casualties Reported

A missile fired from Yemen landed in central Israel on Friday, causing no casualties, according to the Israeli military and emergency services. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that the missile appeared to have fragmented midair, with shrapnel falling near Ben Gurion Airport. Air raid sirens were activated across central Israel, including major cities like Tel Aviv and West Jerusalem, following smartphone alerts issued to residents.

The missile launch occurred just hours after Israel intercepted a drone fired from Yemen targeting villages near the Gaza Strip, with no damage or injuries reported in that incident. Earlier on the same day, the Israeli Air Force struck energy infrastructure in Sanaa, Yemen, used by the Houthi group, intensifying the ongoing conflict between the two sides.

The Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the missile and drone attacks, stating that they targeted Ben Gurion Airport with a hypersonic ballistic missile as retaliation for Israel’s military actions in Gaza. This exchange of attacks marks an escalation in hostilities linked to the broader conflict involving Gaza and its regional impact.

Earlier in the week, missiles fired from Yemen were intercepted by Israeli forces, triggering widespread air raid sirens in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and other cities. Residents sought shelter amid tens of thousands rallying across Israel, demanding the release of hostages and an end to the Gaza war. Despite the intensity of the alerts, there were no reports of casualties or significant damage.

The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, have been actively launching missiles and drones at Israel and Israeli-affiliated targets since November. In response, Israel has carried out retaliatory airstrikes on key Houthi-controlled territories including Sanaa and the port city of Hodeidah. The ongoing exchange highlights the widening regional dimensions of the Gaza conflict.