A missile fired by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen struck near Ben-Gurion International Airport on Sunday, briefly halting air traffic and alarming passengers ahead of a crucial Israeli Cabinet vote on escalating operations in Gaza.
Israeli authorities confirmed that this was the first missile to land within airport grounds since the Gaza war began in October 2023. Four people suffered minor injuries, and several international airlines canceled or delayed flights in response.
The Houthis claimed responsibility, stating they launched a hypersonic ballistic missile in solidarity with Palestinians. While most of their previous attacks were intercepted, this missile reportedly bypassed Israel’s defenses due to a technical issue with the interceptor.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation, declaring that Israel would respond to both the Houthis and their Iranian backers. “There will be bangs,” he said, emphasizing a strategic response at a time of Israel’s choosing.
The security Cabinet convened later Sunday to decide on expanding the offensive in Gaza. Israel’s Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir stated, “We will operate in additional areas and destroy all infrastructure above and below ground.” Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for more aggressive tactics, including targeting essential supplies in Gaza.
The conflict resumed in March after an 8-week ceasefire collapsed. Since then, Israel has tightened its blockade, halting goods into Gaza and intensifying strikes. The humanitarian crisis in the territory of 2.3 million people has deepened, with widespread hunger, looting, and mass displacement.
Israeli strikes over the weekend killed at least seven Palestinians, including young children. Meanwhile, two Israeli soldiers were reported killed in combat. Since fighting resumed in March, over 52,000 Palestinians have died, according to local health officials.
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and capturing about 250 hostages. Israel says 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with roughly 35 presumed dead.