A ballistic missile launched by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels struck near Ben Gurion International Airport early this morning. The missile reportedly impacted a grove near an airport access road close to Terminal 3, marking the first-ever direct strike within the airport’s perimeter.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed they attempted to intercept the incoming threat using the Arrow and THAAD missile defense systems, but the interception attempt failed, raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of Israel’s air defense systems in high-risk areas like its main international airport.
According to emergency services, three individuals were injured in the blast. A 50-year-old man suffered moderate injuries, while two women, aged 54 and 32, sustained minor injuries. Emergency personnel quickly secured the scene and treated the wounded.
In a swift response, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning, stating: “Anyone who strikes us, we will strike back seven times harder.” Despite the alarming nature of the missile strike on Ben Gurion Airport, flights were resumed shortly afterward, and the airport returned to normal operations.
This missile attack from Yemen on Israel follows a series of escalations by the Houthi rebels, who have intensified their attacks on Israeli targets since October 7. Backed by Iran, the Houthis have emerged as a growing threat to regional stability, coordinating with other groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah in the broader conflict.
The Houthi missile strike on Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport is a stark reminder of the expanding reach of Iran-backed forces and the potential vulnerabilities in Israel’s missile defense system
