Fri May 02 17:07:20 UTC 2025: **Yemen’s Houthis Claim Hypersonic Missile Strike on Israeli Airbase Amidst Escalating Regional Tensions**
JERUSALEM/SANAA – The Yemeni Houthi movement claimed responsibility on Friday for launching two missiles towards Israel, targeting the Ramat David airbase and the Tel Aviv area. The Israeli military confirmed intercepting at least one missile, stating that interception attempts were made for both. While alarms were triggered, Israeli authorities reported no casualties or damage. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree asserted that hypersonic missiles were used and successfully hit their targets, a claim the Israeli military did not confirm.
The attacks, which follow increased US military operations in Yemen, coincide with ongoing tensions in the region. The US has significantly escalated strikes in Yemen since March, targeting both infrastructure and individuals linked to the Houthi leadership, resulting in a sharply rising civilian death toll, according to various sources including Airwars and the United Nations. The US recently extended the deployment of the USS Harry S. Truman in the Middle East, bolstering its military presence.
The Houthis have repeatedly linked their attacks on Israel, as well as on US and British ships, to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, stating that attacks will cease only with a permanent ceasefire. The timing of the missile launch follows increased US strikes on Yemen. The Houthis refrained from attacks during a previous Gaza ceasefire, but resumed them after Israel blocked aid into Gaza and renewed hostilities.
The escalating conflict has sparked international concern, with the UN calling on all parties to abide by international humanitarian law and protect civilians. Rights advocates and US senators have expressed alarm over the growing number of civilian casualties resulting from the intensified military actions in Yemen.
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