Missile from Yemen Strikes Near Tel Aviv's Main Airport

A missile launched by the Houthi militia in Yemen struck an area in central Israel close to the primary terminal of Israel's international airport near Tel Aviv. This incident led to temporary flight suspensions, though no fatalities were reported.

According to the Israeli Defense Forces, various intercept attempts were made when the projectile targeted the vicinity of Ben-Gurion Airport. The situation is presently under investigation.

Israel's national ambulance service reported that while the explosion physically harmed two people, another individual suffered injuries during a rush to seek shelter.

Social media users shared videos and photos depicting a substantial smoke plume rising from an open area next to Terminal 3, which is a major hub for international flights. The footage showed alarms blasting as individuals urgently sought cover.

Furthermore, a nearby roadway appeared strewn with debris from the blast.

Before the missile made contact, the Israel Airport Authority mentioned 422 international flights were on their itinerary for Sunday. Following the attack, operations were halted following security protocols, but the authority expressed that airport operations were expected to resume shortly.

The missile salvo from the Iranian-supported Houthi group is part of a broader stance of solidarity with Hamas in Gaza, renewed after Israel's cessation of a ceasefire in the region as early as mid-March. Even though Israel successfully intercepts most threats, debris frequently lands across the country.

Contributions to the report were made by Myra Noveck, Adam Rasgon, and Gabby Sobelman. Isabel Kershner, who has been covering affairs in Israel and Palestine since 1990, provided additional context.