Israel Vows to Strike Houthis ‘Like Tehran’ After Missile Attack on Jerusalem
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed severe retaliation against Yemen’s Houthi rebels after their missile attack on central Israel was intercepted, signaling a broader campaign against Iran-backed groups. The incident, which caused no harm, highlights heightened regional tensions tied to the Gaza conflict.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a fierce warning to Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels after they launched a ballistic missile targeting central Israel, including Jerusalem and Ben Gurion Airport. The attack, at approximately 6:56 PM IDT, triggered air raid sirens across Jerusalem, Modiin, Rishon Lezion, and parts of the West Bank, sending thousands to shelters. The Israeli Air Force’s Arrow missile defense system intercepted the projectile, preventing any casualties or damage. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed the group used a “Palestine 2” hypersonic missile to disrupt airport operations, supposedly in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
Katz, in a statement posted on X, declared, “The fate of Yemen will be like that of Tehran. After we struck the head of the snake in Tehran, we will also strike the Houthis in Yemen. Whoever raises a hand against Israel, his hand will be cut off.” The remarks reference Israel’s June 2025 airstrikes that crippled Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, killing 935 and injuring over 5,600. The Houthis, controlling northern Yemen, have launched over 40 missile and drone attacks on Israel since the Gaza war began, including a July 2024 strike in Tel Aviv that killed one civilian. Israel’s response has included naval strikes on Houthi-controlled Hodeidah port, with Katz previously warning of a naval and air blockade if attacks persist.
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, sheltering during the attack, posted on X, “We thought we were done with missiles coming to Israel, but Houthis just lit one up over us in Israel. Maybe those B2 bombers need to visit Yemen!” The incident, following a June 28 Houthi missile launch, underscores escalating tensions as Israel considers broader military action against Iran’s proxies amid ongoing Gaza ceasefire talks.