Jerusalem: A projectile launched from Yemen struck near Tel Aviv on Saturday, leaving 16 people injured, according to Israeli authorities. The Israeli military admitted to an unsuccessful attempt to intercept the missile, marking a bigger escalation in ongoing tensions.
The attack was claimed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who stated that they had targeted a “military site” in the Tel Aviv area using a ballistic missile. The rebels, known for their alignment with Iran, have intensified their strikes on Israel since the Gaza conflict began over a year ago, asserting their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians.
The projectile reportedly landed in Bnei Brak, a town east of Tel Aviv. Israel’s emergency medical service reported treating 14 individuals for minor injuries, primarily sustained while rushing to shelters, alongside several cases of anxiety.
The incident follows a series of Houthi missile and drone strikes targeting Israel, with most intercepted by Israeli defence systems. Retaliatory strikes by Israel on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen have hit ports, energy facilities, and, more recently, Sanaa, the rebel-held capital.
Houthi leader Abdul Malik Al-Houthi condemned these strikes, calling them acts of aggression. As regional tensions heighten, the Houthis have vowed to continue operations until the blockade on Gaza is lifted.
This exchange of strikes shows how the conflict in Israel has expanded to other parts of the Middle East, with Yemen’s Houthi rebels emerging as a formidable adversary of Israel.
