A ballistic missile launched from Yemen by Iran-backed Houthi rebels was likely intercepted by Israeli air defenses on Saturday morning, according to a statement by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), as reported by The Times of Israel.
The IDF confirmed that attempts were made to intercept the missile, and these were “apparently successful,” with no reports of injuries or damage. The missile triggered sirens in Beersheba, Dimona, Arad, and nearby regions in southern Israel.
Residents received early warning push notifications on their mobile devices four minutes before the sirens sounded, alerting them of an incoming long-range missile threat.
The Houthis later claimed responsibility, stating:
“The operation successfully achieved its goal, thanks be to Allah,”
and claimed they had targeted a “sensitive Israeli enemy target” in Beersheba.
Since the October 7 Hamas-led massacre, the Houthis have continued to carry out missile and drone attacks on Israel and maritime targets, escalating their operations despite occasional ceasefires.
According to The Times of Israel, by January 2025, the Houthis had launched over 40 ballistic missiles at Israel. One such missile killed a civilian in Tel Aviv in July, prompting Israel’s first retaliatory strike in Yemen.
After a brief ceasefire in January, Houthi attacks resumed following the IDF’s renewed offensive in Gaza on March 18, with the group having launched 52 ballistic missiles and at least 13 drones at Israel since then. While some missiles failed to reach their targets, the Houthis remain the primary group actively targeting Israel.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah’s attacks from Lebanon have paused since a November ceasefire, and Iran’s 12-day missile campaign earlier this month has also concluded.
In a separate development, the IDF issued an evacuation warning to civilians in the central Gaza Strip, targeting neighborhoods in Nuseirat, Al-Zahraa, and Al-Mughraqa.
IDF Arabic spokesperson Avichai Adraee stated:
“To all Gaza Strip residents in Nuseirat, Al-Zahraa and Al-Mughraqa in the northern coast neighborhoods, Al-Nuzha, Al-Badi, Al-Busma, Al-Zahraa, Al-Bustaneim, Badr, Abu Huraira, Al-Ruda and Al-Safa: The IDF is operating with tremendous force to destroy the capabilities of terrorist organizations in these areas and will attack any area used to launch rockets.”
The statement concluded with a warning to evacuate immediately:
“For your safety, evacuate immediately southward to the Al-Mawasi area and do not return to dangerous combat zones. The terrorist organizations continue to bring disaster upon you – evacuate immediately.”
The situation remains tense as regional threats against Israel persist, with renewed focus on civilian safety and active conflict zones.