Yemen claims hypersonic missile strike on Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport

The Yemeni Armed Forces say they have launched a hypersonic ballistic missile at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, in what they describe as a "precision military operation" aimed at supporting Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The missile reportedly targeted the airport near Tel Aviv—referred to by Yemeni officials as Lod Airport, in the city they call “occupied Jaffa,” Caliber.Az reports, citing Yemeni media. 

The type of missile used has not been disclosed. It is the third such strike claimed by the Yemeni military in 24 hours.

Brigadier General Yahya Sare'e, spokesperson for the Yemeni Armed Forces, said the missile successfully hit its target, triggering widespread panic and forcing thousands of people into bomb shelters. He claimed the attack had halted operations at the airport.

In a televised statement, Sare'e said the operation was conducted “in support of the oppressed Palestinian people and their resistance fighters,” condemning what he called “genocide being committed by the Zionist enemy in Gaza.” He also warned that continued inaction by the wider region would only embolden Israel’s military campaign.

The Armed Forces, aligned with the Houthi-led government in Sana’a, reiterated their intention to intensify attacks unless Israel ceases hostilities in Gaza and lifts its blockade on the territory.

Earlier on Friday, air raid sirens were triggered across Tel Aviv and central Israel, with reports of explosions and missile interception efforts by Israeli defence systems. Israeli media outlets confirmed that flights in and out of Ben Gurion Airport had been temporarily suspended. The latest attack brings the total number of missiles and drones launched from Yemen in recent days to at least 44, according to local reports.

Since Israel launched its military campaign in Gaza in October 2023, Yemen has emerged as an increasingly active regional player. Backed by the Houthi-controlled administration, the Yemeni Armed Forces have carried out multiple long-range missile and drone operations, as well as naval actions targeting Israeli-linked infrastructure and shipping routes.

Initially focusing on disrupting maritime traffic in the Red Sea, Yemeni operations have since expanded to target Israeli economic hubs, including the southern port of Eilat and now Ben Gurion Airport. Earlier this month, Yemen announced a naval blockade on Haifa Port, a vital entry point for Israeli cargo, escalating the scope of its military involvement.

The attacks have had broader implications for international logistics and travel, with several global airlines suspending routes to and from Israel due to security concerns.

By Aghakazim Guliyev