On Tuesday morning, a ballistic missile launched by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen was intercepted before reaching its target in Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that their air defense systems successfully shot down the missile. The attack caused no injuries or damage, but it led to a tense morning across central Israel.
Missile Fired from Yemen, Shot Down by Israeli Defenses
The missile launch happened in the early hours before dawn. As it approached Israeli airspace, warning sirens blared in numerous cities and towns. This sudden alarm sent hundreds of thousands of people running for shelter, many still in their sleepwear. The missile was eventually brought down by Israel’s defense system, and no impact occurred on the ground.
Later, the Houthi group took responsibility for the missile launch. They claimed that the intended target was Israel’s main airport, Ben Gurion Airport, located near Tel Aviv. The IDF confirmed that the missile never reached its destination and was neutralized at a safe distance.
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This launch came just a day after the Houthis fired a drone at Israel, which was also intercepted before it could cause any harm. These back-to-back attacks have raised concerns and highlighted the ongoing threats Israel faces from long-range weapons launched from Yemen.
Israeli Airstrikes Target Houthi-Controlled Port in Response
In response to continued Houthi attacks, including the recent drone launch, Israeli Air Force drones carried out airstrikes on the Hodeida port in western Yemen. The port is under the control of the Houthis, who have been using it to stage attacks.
According to the IDF, the airstrikes focused on destroying military infrastructure used by the Houthis. This infrastructure had been previously hit by Israeli strikes but was being repaired for reuse, prompting the need for a second round of attacks. The IDF said this mission aimed to prevent further launches of missiles and drones from the port area.
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Monday’s airstrike marked the thirteenth time Israel has conducted military operations in Yemen since November 2023. The strikes are part of Israel’s efforts to stop missile and drone threats coming from over 1,800 kilometers away.
The Houthis, based in Yemen, started launching attacks on Israel in November 2023. These attacks began shortly after the October 7 Hamas assault and have continued ever since, with occasional pauses. Their targets have included Israeli territory as well as cargo ships in the Red Sea.
Houthi Attacks Continue Despite Past Ceasefire
The Houthis are known for their strong anti-Israel stance and have carried out multiple long-range attacks since last year. They claim that their actions are in support of Palestinians in Gaza, but many of their attacks have also targeted commercial ships and international routes, especially in the Red Sea.
In January 2025, when a temporary ceasefire was reached between Israel and Hamas, the Houthis paused their strikes. But by that time, they had already launched over 40 ballistic missiles and many drones toward Israel. One missile strike in July 2024 killed a civilian and injured several others in Tel Aviv. That deadly attack prompted Israel’s first military operation in Yemen.
Since March 18, 2025, when the IDF resumed its operations in Gaza, the Houthis have sharply increased their attacks again. So far, they have launched 63 ballistic missiles and at least 15 drones toward Israel. Not all of these weapons reached their targets — some were shot down, and a few fell short of Israeli territory.
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The attacks reflect growing regional instability, disrupting both Israel and international shipping. Red Sea traffic has fallen due to repeated Houthi threats. Despite a May agreement to halt strikes on American ships, recent attacks have destroyed vessels and killed sailors.
The IDF remains alert, using air defenses to prevent serious damage. Tuesday’s missile interception highlights the ongoing threat and tense conditions in the region.