Sun May 04 16:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Israel Vows Retaliation After Missile Strike Near Ben Gurion Airport
**TEL AVIV** – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed multiple retaliatory strikes against the Houthis following a missile attack near Ben Gurion Airport, Israel’s main international gateway. A missile, launched by Yemeni Houthi rebels, landed just 75 meters from Terminal 3, creating a 25-meter-deep crater and causing panic among passengers. Eight people sustained injuries in the incident.
The missile, which the Houthis claimed was in support of Palestinians in Gaza, reportedly bypassed several layers of Israeli air defense systems, prompting a full military investigation. This has led to the cancellation of several flights to and from Ben Gurion by US and European airlines in the coming days, jeopardizing the fragile resumption of air travel following the January ceasefire with Hamas.
Netanyahu, in a video statement, declared the attack would not go unpunished, stating, “It’s not a one-and-done. There will be blows.” He also confirmed US collaboration in responding to the attack. Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed this sentiment, promising a sevenfold retaliation. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree asserted the strike demonstrated that the airport is no longer a safe haven.
The attack comes amidst heightened tensions, with Israel preparing to potentially expand its military campaign in Gaza and facing stalled ceasefire talks. The Houthis have previously targeted Israeli interests and Red Sea shipping. The incident raises serious questions about Israel’s air defense capabilities and further destabilizes the region.
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