On May 4, 2025, a hypersonic ballistic missile launched by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi rebels struck near Terminal 3 of Israel's Ben Gurion International Airport, causing significant disruptions and injuring eight individuals. This marks the first successful Houthi missile strike near Israel's primary airport, highlighting a concerning lapse in the nation's air defense capabilities.
Incident Details
The missile, identified by the Houthis as the "Palestine 2," reportedly evaded Israel's advanced defense systems, including the U.S.-made THAAD and Israel's Arrow systems, which failed to intercept the projectile. The explosion created a substantial crater near the airport's main terminal, damaged adjacent roadways, and led to the temporary suspension of all flights. Sirens blared across central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, as residents sought shelter. Among the eight injured, two sustained moderate injuries while en route to safety.
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Houthi Justification and Threats
The Houthi movement claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was in retaliation for Israel's military actions in Gaza. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree declared that Ben Gurion Airport is "no longer safe for air travel" and warned of a comprehensive aerial blockade on Israel through repeated targeting of its airports.
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Israeli and International Response
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack, attributing it to Iran's influence and vowing a decisive response against both the Houthis and their Iranian backers. Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized that any harm to Israel would be met with a sevenfold retaliation. The United States, already engaged in military operations against Houthi targets, has intensified its efforts, having spent approximately $7 billion on such campaigns.
Impact on Air Travel
In the wake of the attack, several international airlines, including British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, and Delta, suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv, citing safety concerns. The temporary closure of Ben Gurion Airport underscores the broader implications of the conflict on global air travel and regional stability.
Broader Context
This incident is part of a series of escalations in the Middle East, with the Houthis increasing their missile and drone attacks in solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. The failure of Israel's defense systems to intercept the missile raises questions about the effectiveness of current security measures and the evolving capabilities of non-state actors like the Houthis.
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