A ballistic missile launched from Yemen by Houthi rebels landed near Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport on Sunday morning, May 4, prompting a brief suspension of all flights, Israeli authorities confirmed.
The Israeli military reported that interception efforts were undertaken, but debris or the missile itself ultimately fell near a roadway close to the Tel Aviv airport’s Terminal 3 parking area. Photos circulating on social media showed scattered debris on a road bend near the terminal.
Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for the launch, describing it as a “supersonic ballistic missile” that had “successfully hit its target,” according to a statement broadcast by their al-Masirah TV network.
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels have ramped up their attacks on Israel in recent weeks, declaring their actions as part of a broader campaign of solidarity with the Palestinian people in Gaza.
In response to the incident, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued a stark warning, vowing that “whoever strikes us will be struck seven times harder.” The brief statement underscores Israel’s intent to retaliate forcefully.
Following the strike, Ben Gurion Airport authorities confirmed that takeoffs and landings were temporarily halted as a precaution but resumed shortly thereafter. Passengers at the terminal shared footage on social media showing a plume of smoke visible from within the airport complex.
According to Reuters, Israel’s ambulance service reported that eight individuals were transported to the hospital, including a man with limb injuries described as being in mild to moderate condition, and two women who sustained mild head injuries.
