Israeli military confirms Iranian-made drone strike on Tel Aviv Investigation underway

IDF Spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari has provided an update on the airstrike that targeted Tel Aviv on the night of July 19.

Initial findings indicate that the attack was executed using an Iranian-made Sammad-3 kamikaze drone, Caliber.Az reports citing Israeli media.

This UAV, launched from Yemen by Houthi militants, measures 3 meters in length and has a 5-meter wingspan. It is capable of travelling up to 1,600 kilometres and can carry a payload of up to 40 kilograms.

The drone approached from the southeast, manoeuvring around Israel by circling south and then north over the Mediterranean Sea before launching its attack from the west.

The IDF is currently investigating why the UAV was not intercepted. Israeli media reports suggest that while the drone was detected, it was not recognized as a hostile UAV, resulting in a lack of interception and no warning alerts about the impending threat.

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A suspected drone attack on Tel Aviv, Israel, has resulted in one fatality and at least ten injuries, with Yemen's Houthi fighters claiming responsibility.

The Houthi spokesperson announced on social media that the attack "targeted 'Tel Aviv' in occupied Palestine", Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

The Israeli military is investigating the incident, which occurred near the US Embassy.

The probe will address why Israel's air defence systems failed to intercept the drone. In response, the Israeli Air Force has increased patrols to secure the skies.

Israeli police found a deceased man in an apartment near the explosion and are investigating the circumstances. The blast site, marked by broken glass and damage, has been cordoned off.

The Houthis have previously targeted Israel and Israeli-linked shipping as part of their support for Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Prior Houthi attacks had been intercepted by Israeli or allied defences.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah in southern Lebanon has intensified its attacks on northern Israel, expressing solidarity with Palestinians.