Houthis Launch Hypersonic Missiles at Israel, Claim Hit on Military Base
Yemen’s Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for firing two missiles toward northern Israel, asserting one of the projectiles — a hypersonic missile — struck the Ramat David military airbase in a symbolic act of solidarity with Palestinians under siege in Gaza.
The Israeli military said on Friday that both missiles, launched from Yemeni territory, were intercepted — though the final outcome of the second missile interception remains under review. Alarms were triggered in various areas, including near Tel Aviv, but no casualties or damage have been reported so far.
Yahya Saree, the Houthis’ military spokesperson, announced that the group had carried out a “military operation” targeting a major Israeli military facility. He insisted the missile strike was successful and confirmed the use of advanced hypersonic weaponry — a claim that, if verified, would mark a significant escalation in regional military capability.
The Houthis, formally known as Ansar Allah, have launched several attacks on Israeli and Western assets in recent months. Their campaign intensified after Israel resumed full-scale military operations in Gaza in early March and halted the delivery of humanitarian aid during what was supposed to be a ceasefire.
Civilian Toll Mounts as US Ramps Up Yemen Strikes
As Houthi strikes on Israel continue, the United States has escalated military operations in Yemen, particularly against Houthi-controlled areas. A Pentagon official confirmed that US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth extended the deployment of the USS Harry S. Truman to ensure continued naval presence in the region.
Airstrikes by the US and its allies have resulted in a growing number of civilian casualties. UK-based watchdog Airwars estimates between 27 and 55 civilians were killed in March, with even higher tolls reported in April. One of the deadliest strikes hit Ras Isa port in Hodeidah, killing at least 80 and injuring over 150.
Another recent air raid targeted detained African migrants, reportedly killing 68 people, while separate strikes around Yemen’s capital claimed additional lives.
Human rights organizations and UN officials have raised alarms over the increasing civilian toll. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric reiterated the need for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law and protect civilian populations. Meanwhile, three US senators have called for accountability from the Pentagon over civilian harm caused by American operations in Yemen.
Despite international appeals for restraint, the Houthis have vowed to continue attacks on Israel and Western assets until a lasting truce is enforced in Gaza.
