Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, May 9: Israel’s military reported that it successfully intercepted a missile launched from Yemen on Friday, triggering air raid sirens and causing explosions that were heard in the Jerusalem area. AFP journalists confirmed loud blasts, though no injuries were immediately reported.

The missile, intercepted by Israel’s defense systems, is believed to be part of a series of escalating attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Huthi rebels, who have intensified assaults since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in October 2023. While no group immediately claimed responsibility, the Huthis have previously targeted Israel in what they claim is an act of solidarity with Palestinians.

This follows Sunday’s missile strike by the Huthis on Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, which injured several people and damaged infrastructure near the main terminal a rare breach of Israeli air defenses. In retaliation, Israel launched airstrikes on Tuesday targeting the airport in Sanaa, Yemen’s rebel-held capital, along with nearby power stations, crippling the airport’s operations.

The Israeli strikes came after a US led bombing campaign aimed at deterring further Huthi attacks on maritime traffic in the Red Sea. However, a ceasefire between the US and the Huthis was reached later that day, mediated by Oman, to safeguard navigation routes.

Despite the truce, the Huthis declared they would continue attacks on Israeli territory and vessels, stating the ceasefire agreement does not extend to Israel. The situation underscores the region’s growing volatility, as conflict in Gaza continues to reverberate across the Middle East.