Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged a decisive response to Houthi forces and their ally Iran following a missile attack near Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion International Airport on May 4. The strike, claimed by the Yemen-based group, marks a dangerous escalation in regional tensions as global aviation faces fresh disruptions.
A Houthi-launched missile damaged a driveway near the airport's main terminal, injuring four people and triggering flight cancellations by Air Europa, Lufthansa, and other carriers. While Israeli and U.S. defense systems failed to intercept the projectile, officials confirmed no critical infrastructure was compromised.
Netanyahu's office stated via social media platform X that attacks "emanate from Iran," vowing retaliation "at a time and place of our choosing." The Houthis countered by declaring a "comprehensive air blockade" against Israel, urging airlines worldwide to suspend service to Israeli airports.
The incident comes amid intensified U.S. airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen and growing concerns over expanding Middle Eastern conflict zones. Analysts warn the targeting of civilian travel hubs could reshape both regional security strategies and international business operations.
Travel advisories are being updated as aviation insurers reassess risk profiles for Middle Eastern routes. Meanwhile, energy markets show cautious stability despite the heightened military rhetoric.
