Tensions Escalate as Houthis Target Israel with Ballistic Missiles, IDF Strikes Back in Yemen

In the early hours of Thursday morning, sirens sounded across central Israel after the Houthis in Yemen launched a ballistic missile towards the Jewish state. The missile was intercepted by Israel's Air Force before it could cross into Israeli territory. However, sirens were activated as a precaution against falling shrapnel. No injuries were reported from the missile itself, though some people suffered panic attacks or minor injuries as they rushed to safe rooms.

The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, stating they had launched two ballistic missiles towards Israel. However, the IDF confirmed that one missile was successfully intercepted, while the other did not cross into Israeli airspace. Explosions were heard across Israel as the missile interception took place.

This marks the second attack from the Houthis within a week. On Monday, the group launched a drone, which was intercepted by an IDF missile boat before it could reach Israeli territory.

In retaliation, Israel's Air Force launched a series of airstrikes on Houthi-controlled targets in Yemen. Early Thursday morning, 14 Israeli aircraft targeted military sites in the Houthi capital of Sana’a, including ports and energy infrastructure, which have been used for smuggling weapons into the region. The airstrikes aimed to disrupt the Houthis' ability to launch further attacks against Israel.

Israel's Defense Minister, Yoav Katz, issued a stern warning to the Houthis, saying, "Those who raise a hand against the State of Israel will have their hand severed, and those who harm us will be struck sevenfold." The IDF's operation targeted strategic sites, including ports that the Houthis use to fund their war efforts. The airstrikes reportedly killed nine people, according to Houthi-controlled media, and caused significant damage to the ports.

Tensions remain high as both sides prepare for further escalation. The Houthis have fired over 200 ballistic missiles and more than 170 drones at Israel, with many of the projectiles intercepted by Israeli and U.S. defense systems. In July, a Houthi drone strike resulted in the death of an Israeli citizen in Tel Aviv.