Jerusalem, April 13 — Yemen’s Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, launched ballistic missiles toward Israel on Sunday in retaliation for the ongoing Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip, according to multiple sources.
The Israeli military confirmed that at least two ballistic missiles were fired from Yemen, triggering nationwide air raid sirens across central Israel, including Jerusalem and parts of the West Bank. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that air defense systems were activated in response to the threat, though it remains unclear whether the missiles were successfully intercepted.
“There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage,” the IDF said in a statement.
Eyewitnesses and journalists from Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported hearing both warning sirens and subsequent explosions in Jerusalem shortly after the launch.
According to The Times of Israel, the missile launches are part of a broader campaign by the Houthis, who have intensified their attacks against Israel in recent weeks. Since March 18 — when Israel resumed military operations in Gaza in breach of a prior ceasefire — the Houthis have reportedly launched more than 20 ballistic missiles and dozens of drones toward Israeli targets.
The latest missile strike underscores growing fears of a widening regional conflict, as tensions in Gaza continue to draw in foreign actors. The Houthis, who control large parts of northern Yemen, have consistently positioned themselves as allies of the Palestinian cause and adversaries of Israel.
As of Sunday evening, Israeli authorities said they were continuing to assess the impact of the attack and investigate the effectiveness of their interception efforts.
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