Yemen Houthi Rebels Claim Responsibility for Strikes
On Monday, Yemen’s Houthi rebels attributed a series of strikes in and around the capital, Sanaa, to American aggression. This follows a missile launched by the Iran-backed group that struck near Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, marking a significant escalation in their ongoing conflict. According to reports from the Houthi-run Saba news agency, the attacks targeted multiple locations, including Arbaeen Street and the airport road, wounding at least 14 individuals in the Sawan neighborhood.
The Houthis, who exert control over significant regions in Yemen, have claimed responsibility for numerous missile and drone attacks aimed at both Israel and maritime paths in the Red Sea during the conflict in Gaza. This effort is framed as a show of solidarity with the Palestinians, despite the inherent risks involved in targeting such strategic locations.
Missile Strikes Cause Panic During Busy Airport Hours
The missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport, which occurred on Sunday, resulted in injuries to six people and left a sizable crater in the airport’s perimeter, despite several interception attempts. Israeli officials confirmed that the missile struck close to Terminal 3’s parking lots, a critical area for airport operations, prompting immediate emergency responses.
In the wake of the incident, several international airlines suspended flights to Israel. Video footage released by authorities shows police investigating the impact site, while Central Israel’s police chief emphasized the severity of the attack, noting it marked the first instance of a missile directly hitting within the airport’s boundaries.
Israel’s Response and Future Plans
In a video message disseminated via Telegram, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged past military actions against the Houthis and assured the public of ongoing efforts to counter such threats in the future. Significantly, he hinted at forthcoming retaliatory measures against Iran, stating, “It will not happen in one bang, but there will be many bangs,” stirring concerns regarding potential escalations in the region.
Amidst the growing tensions, a government official disclosed that Israel’s security cabinet would convene to discuss the situation, while Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, head of the Israeli army, affirmed plans for an intensified military escalation in Gaza. He confirmed that orders for reservists would be issued, aiming at dismantling Hamas infrastructure both above and underground.
Passenger Reactions and Airport Safety Measures
Witnesses at the airport described the moment of the strike as chaotic, with one journalist noting a loud explosion that reverberated throughout the terminal. Security personnel quickly directed hundreds of travelers to shelter, some even leading them into bunkers to ensure their safety amid the unfolding crisis.
One passenger, choosing to remain anonymous, expressed that such attacks have become alarmingly routine since the onset of violence following the Hamas attacks on October 7. Despite the panic triggered by the missile strike and subsequent air raid sirens, airport operations resumed shortly after the alert, with officials assuring the public that Ben Gurion Airport remained operational.
Warnings Issued by Houthi Forces for Future Strikes
Following the missile attacks, the Houthis reiterated their commitment to targeting Israeli airports, specifically singling out Ben Gurion Airport. A military spokesperson for the rebels declared intentions to escalate their military operations, urging airlines to reconsider their operations to Israel amid ongoing threats.
Israeli emergency services reported treating at least six individuals for injuries ranging from light to moderate severity, underscoring the immediate impact of the conflict on civilians. Such developments highlight the volatile nature of the situation in the region and the continuous risk posed by ongoing military engagements.
