BEN-GURION INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, Israel — A missile fired by Iranian-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen disrupted operations at Israel’s main international airport on Sunday, sending passengers into a panic as flights and commuter traffic were temporarily halted. The missile struck near an access road, marking the first direct hit on the airport since the escalation of hostilities in Gaza began on October 7.
Israeli military officials indicated that preliminary assessments suggest a technical malfunction may have hindered the missile interception system. Four individuals sustained minor injuries in the incident, according to Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency medical service. The attack came just hours before Israeli Cabinet ministers were scheduled to vote on intensifying military actions in Gaza, as the Israel Defense Forces prepared to activate tens of thousands of reserve soldiers.
The Houthis have openly expressed support for the Palestinians throughout the ongoing conflict, positioning themselves as a significant player in Iran’s “Axis of Resistance.” With their capability to launch sustained attacks on Israel, the rebels have gained international attention and recognition. In response to the missile strike, the group warned airlines to refrain from flying to Ben-Gurion Airport, stating that such flights would risk the safety of both aircraft and passengers.
Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, a Houthi military spokesman, claimed in a statement that the missile fired was hypersonic, emphasizing their intent to continue targeting Israel’s primary gateway. Israel has faced multiple missile threats since the conflict escalated, with most missiles being successfully intercepted, although some breaches have caused damage.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that U.S. support for Israeli military operations against the Houthis remains strong, vowing a decisive response to the rebels at a time of Israel’s choosing. The security Cabinet met on Sunday night to discuss plans for broader military engagement in Gaza, with Netanyahu underscoring intentions to address the conflict more aggressively.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged for a comprehensive military effort, calling for focused strikes on critical infrastructure in Gaza. Recent airstrikes have led to high civilian casualties, with reports indicating that Israeli actions have resulted in over 52,000 deaths in Gaza, including many women and children. In the wake of the renewed violence, humanitarian conditions in Gaza have deteriorated severely, with a significant portion of the population facing food shortages.
Efforts to deliver aid to Gaza remain fraught with challenges. Malta’s Prime Minister Robert Abela noted his country’s willingness to investigate damage to a humanitarian vessel reportedly attacked by drones, which activists attribute to Israel. The ship remains in international waters as tensions around aid logistics persist.
As the conflict intensifies, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is increasingly dire, leading to widespread displacement and suffering among the 2.3 million residents. The recent conflicts have not only damaged infrastructure but also severely limited access to necessities, fueling unrest and calls for international intervention.
With the situation rapidly evolving, the international community continues to monitor developments closely. The future remains uncertain, as both sides brace for further escalations in this protracted conflict.