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In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, a missile fired by the Iran-aligned Houthi movement reached central Israel for the first time on September 15, 2024. The missile, reportedly a new hypersonic ballistic model, traveled 2,040 km (1,270 miles) in just over 11 minutes. While the missile was intercepted by Israeli defense systems, it fragmented mid-air, causing debris to land in fields and near a railway station. Fortunately, there were no direct casualties, though nine civilians were lightly injured while seeking shelter.
Israeli Response and Netanyahu’s Warning- Israel News
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that Israel would impose a “heavy price” on the Houthis for this unprecedented missile strike. He referenced previous retaliatory airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen and made it clear that further attacks would not go unanswered. “Whoever needs a reminder is invited to visit the Hodeida port,” Netanyahu said, emphasizing Israel’s resolve.
Context and Previous Houthi Attacks- Iran vs Israel
The missile attack comes as part of the Houthis’ ongoing solidarity with Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict, which has seen several missile and drone attacks against Israel since October 2023. Previous Houthi missiles had only reached as far as the Red Sea port of Eilat, with much of their offensive capabilities being intercepted or failing to reach deep into Israeli territory. The escalation to hypersonic missiles capable of penetrating central Israel marks a worrying development in the conflict.
Future Threats
The Houthis warned that Israel should brace for more strikes, especially as the one-year anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attack approaches. The group’s spokesperson, Yahya Sarea, declared that future attacks would continue in response to Israeli actions, further complicating an already volatile situation in the region.
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