Sun Sep 15 09:54:12 UTC 2024: ## Israel Vows Revenge After Missile Attack, Tensions Escalate on Multiple Fronts

**Jerusalem** – Israel has vowed retaliation against the Houthis in Yemen after a surface-to-surface missile fired from Yemen landed near Ben-Gurion International Airport early Sunday, triggering sirens across central Israel. While the missile reportedly disintegrated in mid-air, causing no injuries but minor damage, Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu stated that “anyone who tries to hurt us will pay a heavy price.”

The attack comes amidst escalating tensions on multiple fronts. On Sunday, more than 70 rockets were fired from Lebanon into northern Israel, following Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah military depots in Lebanon. Israeli jets also dropped leaflets in southern Lebanon urging residents of one village to evacuate.

These developments have heightened fears of a wider conflict, particularly in the north. Netanyahu has declared that the situation on Israel’s northern border “can’t go on” and requires a shift in the balance of power. He has assured that Israel will do “whatever it takes” to ensure the safe return of the 60,000 residents who fled border communities eleven months ago.

The Israeli security cabinet is set to convene on Monday to discuss further military action, potentially including the safe return of residents as a new war aim. However, differences have emerged between Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant regarding the potential consequences of a war in the north. Netanyahu believes it won’t hinder efforts in Gaza, while Gallant fears it could jeopardize the return of hostages held by Hamas.

Meanwhile, massive protests across Israel on Saturday night demanded a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Despite these calls, Israeli fighter jets struck a Hamas command and control center in Beit Hanoun, north of Gaza city, on Sunday.

The ongoing war in Gaza has resulted in over 41,000 Palestinian deaths, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Israel reports 1,200 deaths and 253 hostages taken during the surprise Hamas attack on October 7th. Over 60 living hostages, and the bodies of approximately 35 others believed to be deceased, remain in Gaza, according to Israeli authorities.

US special envoy Amos Hochstein is scheduled to hold further talks with Lebanese and Israeli officials this week, seen as a last chance to avert a significant Israeli escalation.

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