Israel Vows Strong Response After Intercepting Yemen Missile

On May 4, 2025, a ballistic missile launched from Yemen by the Iran-aligned Houthi movement struck near Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport, injuring six individuals and causing temporary disruptions to air traffic. The missile impacted a grove adjacent to an access road close to Terminal 3, prompting the activation of air raid sirens across central Israel. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was in solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing hostilities in Gaza.

In response, Israel conducted a series of airstrikes on May 5 and 6, targeting Houthi infrastructure in Yemen. Key sites included Sanaa International Airport, which was rendered inoperative, several power stations, and a cement factory. The Israeli military asserted that these facilities were utilized by the Houthis for military operations. Reports indicated casualties and significant damage to Yemen’s infrastructure.

Concurrently, on May 6, the United States and the Houthi movement reached a ceasefire agreement, mediated by Oman, to halt hostilities in the Red Sea region. Under this accord, the Houthis agreed to cease attacks on maritime shipping, and the U.S. committed to ending its airstrikes in Yemen. However, the Houthis clarified that this ceasefire did not extend to their actions against Israel, indicating a continuation of their military activities in that context.

Israeli officials expressed concern over the U.S.-Houthi ceasefire, noting that they were not consulted prior to the agreement. Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized that Israel would independently address threats to its security, holding Iran accountable for supporting Houthi aggression. The Israeli government signaled its intent to continue military operations against Houthi targets as deemed necessary.