The ballistic missile launched from Yemen crashed into the vicinity of Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport, damaging roads and vehicles, halting air traffic, and has been verified by Al Jazeera, according to photos and footage.
Israeli forces confirmed that its defense system did not fire down the projectile on Sunday morning despite several attempts to intercept it, adding that an investigation is ongoing. Eight people were injured, according to paramedics.
Yemeni’s Hooty has been attacking Israel against war and blockade in the Gaza Strip, but has argued for blame for missiles launched at Israel’s busiest airport. At least 52,495 people have been killed in Israel’s attacks on Gaza for more than 18 months, Palestinian officials say.
In a statement on television, Houthi Army spokesman Yahya Saree warned the airline that Ben Gurion Airport is “no longer safe for air travel.”
The attack led to a brief halt of flights at airports in central Israel, with some having to be redirected. All entrances to the airport were also temporarily closed, and train journeys to the trains have been suspended.
According to Israeli media, sirens covered central Israel and urged many people to move to shelters.