Did a Houthi Ballistic Missile Strike Near Israel's Major Airport?
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Synopsis
On May 4, a ballistic missile from Houthi rebels impacted near Israel's Ben Gurion Airport, causing significant disruptions in air traffic. Despite interception efforts by the IDF, the missile struck a grove near the airport, resulting in injuries to eight individuals. Israeli authorities are now investigating the breach of air defenses.
Key Takeaways
- Missile Strike: A ballistic missile hit near Ben Gurion Airport.
- Flight Disruptions: Temporary halt in all takeoffs and landings occurred.
- Injuries: Eight people were injured during the incident.
- Investigation: Israeli authorities are investigating the interception failures.
- Retaliation Warning: Israeli Defence Minister warned of severe retaliation.
Tel Aviv, May 4 (NationPress) A ballistic missile fired by Houthi rebels from Yemen impacted near Israel's Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday. This occurred after numerous interception attempts by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were unsuccessful, leading to a temporary suspension of all flight operations at the nation’s primary international airport.
After a brief pause, the Israel Airport Authority announced that air traffic had resumed following the temporary halt.
The missile struck a grove close to an access road within the airport's boundaries, as reported by the Times of Israel.
Fortunately, a direct hit on terminal facilities was avoided.
“An impact has been identified in the vicinity of Ben Gurion Airport,” stated the IDF, confirming the failure of several interception attempts.
Currently, the Israeli Air Force is investigating the reasons behind the unsuccessful interceptions.
Authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the breach of Israel's air defenses and the missile's impact location near one of the country's most sensitive areas.
Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel's national emergency service, reported that eight individuals sustained injuries during the incident.
A man in his 50s incurred light-to-moderate injuries to his limbs. Two women, aged 54 and 38, were reported to be in stable condition after experiencing the shockwave.
A 64-year-old man received minor injuries from debris, while two other women, aged 22 and 34, were injured while seeking shelter.
Two additional individuals were treated for acute anxiety. All injured parties were taken to hospitals in central Israel.
In the aftermath of the missile attack, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning: “Anyone who harms us will face retaliation sevenfold.”
Thus far, Israel has refrained from retaliating against Yemen despite multiple Houthi attacks, as the United States leads a broader military initiative against the Iran-backed group.
Houthi leaders celebrated the strike as evidence of their long-range attack capabilities.
Senior Houthi official Mohammed al-Bukhaiti informed Al-Araby TV that their group has “no red lines” in their conflict with Israel and highlighted their capability to target sensitive Israeli sites, according to the Times of Israel.
Moreover, Houthi media chief Nasser al-Din Omar warned international airlines against flying to or from Israel, asserting that such operations compromise aircraft safety.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of reporting on such incidents with factual accuracy and impartiality. The recent missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport is a concerning escalation in regional tensions, and we must approach this incident with a balanced perspective, ensuring that our coverage reflects the complexities of the ongoing conflict.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened near Ben Gurion Airport?
A ballistic missile launched by Houthi rebels struck near Israel's Ben Gurion Airport on May 4, causing temporary flight disruptions and injuries.
How did the Israeli authorities respond?
The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed interception attempts failed, and investigations are underway into the breach of air defenses.
What were the injuries reported?
Eight individuals were injured, with varying degrees of trauma, including light-to-moderate injuries and acute anxiety.
What is the significance of this attack?
The attack demonstrates Houthi rebels' long-range strike capabilities and raises concerns regarding Israel's air defense systems.
Has Israel retaliated against Yemen?
So far, Israel has not launched retaliatory strikes against Yemen despite a series of Houthi attacks.
