The Israeli military intercepts a missile launched from Yemen, triggering air raid sirens across multiple regions of the country in the early hours of the morning.
According to posts on social media by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the missile was successfully intercepted by the air force. “Sirens were activated according to protocol,” the IDF added. Earlier statements had indicated the projectile was fired by Houthi forces from Yemen.
The Houthis, who control most of northern Yemen including the capital Sana’a, have been at war with the internationally recognised Yemeni government since 2014. They are part of a loosely organised Iran-aligned alliance opposing Israel, alongside groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
Since the outbreak of the Gaza war on 7 October 2023, Houthi forces have frequently launched missiles towards Israel, the majority of which have been intercepted. They have also claimed responsibility for hundreds of attacks on ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, which they say are linked to Israel. These actions, they stress, are in solidarity with the Palestinian people.
In response, Israel has repeatedly conducted airstrikes against infrastructure in Houthi-controlled areas, targeting ports, power stations, and the airport in Sana’a.
Meanwhile, Israeli media report that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing for an escalation of military operations aimed at taking full control of the Gaza Strip. Channel 12 and the Jerusalem Post, citing sources from Netanyahu’s office, said the Prime Minister supports expanding operations even in areas where Hamas hostages are believed to be held.
According to the Jerusalem Post, Netanyahu’s office conveyed a direct message to IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, urging him to resign if he opposes the proposed expansion of military activity.
The Times of Israel reported that the Chief of Staff has postponed a planned visit to the United States amid the unfolding developments.
“We must remain united and fight together to achieve all of our war goals: the defeat of the enemy, the release of our hostages, and ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel,” Netanyahu told his ministers earlier today.
At the same time, hundreds of former senior security officials, including ex-chiefs of Israel’s military and intelligence services, have reportedly sent a letter to US President Joe Biden, urging him to put pressure on Netanyahu to bring an end to the Gaza war.
Sorces: CNA, Reuters
Video retrieved from: Times of India
Feature photo source: Gulf International Forum
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