Yemen's Houthi armed group announced a hypersonic ballistic missile strike targeting southern Tel Aviv on Saturday, escalating regional tensions amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza. The group claimed the attack targeted "sensitive sites" near Jaffa and caused widespread evacuations to bomb shelters, though Israeli authorities reported no casualties or damage.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea stated the missile carried multiple warheads and "achieved its objectives," vowing further strikes in solidarity with Palestinians. The Israel Defense Forces confirmed intercepting the projectile, triggering air raid sirens across central Israel, including Tel Aviv, disrupting daily life for millions.
The exchange follows Israeli airstrikes in Yemen on Wednesday, which the Houthi-run health ministry claims killed 46 civilians and injured 165. Sarea framed the missile launch as retaliation for these strikes, accusing Israel of "aggression" against Yemeni territory.
Analysts note the incident highlights expanding regional conflict dynamics, with implications for Middle East stability and global energy markets. The use of advanced hypersonic weaponry—a first in this conflict cycle—raises concerns about escalating military capabilities among non-state actors.
