Sun May 04 16:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Missile Near Tel Aviv Airport Prompts Israeli Vow of Retaliation Against Houthi Rebels
**Tel Aviv, Israel –** A missile launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels landed near Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday, prompting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to vow multiple retaliatory strikes. The incident, the first time a missile has hit the vicinity of the airport since the October 2023 war began, caused panic and led to several international flight cancellations, including those by Air India.
The Houthi attack, claimed as a show of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, sent a plume of smoke into the air near Terminal 3. While initial reports suggested possible injuries, the extent of casualties remains unclear. A senior Israeli police commander displayed the crater caused by the missile’s impact.
Netanyahu, in a video address, declared that Israel would retaliate against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, stating, “We operated against them in the past and we will operate in the future.” Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed this sentiment, promising sevenfold retribution. The Prime Minister also confirmed that his cabinet would discuss the next phase of the ongoing military operation in Gaza, reiterating the goal of defeating Hamas and securing the return of Israeli hostages.
This escalation comes as Israel prepares to expand its military operation in Gaza, with thousands of reservists receiving call-up notices. These reservists will be deployed to the borders with Lebanon and the West Bank, freeing up regular troops for the intensified Gaza offensive. The renewed conflict follows the collapse of an eight-week ceasefire in March.
The Houthis, who have increasingly targeted Israel and Red Sea shipping since late 2023, have faced retaliatory strikes from both Israel and the United States. The timing of the airport attack coincides with Netanyahu’s postponement of a visit to Azerbaijan. The ongoing situation remains highly volatile, with fears of further escalation in the region.
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