In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing conflict, Houthi rebels in Yemen launched a missile attack on Tel Aviv, Israel, injuring sixteen people.

The missile struck a park in the city. The Houthis claimed responsibility, stating that they successfully targeted Israeli military installations in Jaffa using a hypersonic ballistic missile, and that Israel’s multi-billion dollar air defense system failed to intercept it. The Israeli military confirmed the attack and the failure of its defense systems.

The attack prompted a swift response from the United States. U.S. Central Command announced airstrikes targeting Houthi missile and command-and-control facilities in Yemen. The strikes also reportedly neutralized several Houthi drones and anti-ship cruise missiles in the Red Sea.

USCENTCOM stated that the operation aimed to degrade Houthi operational capabilities, citing recent attacks on U.S. Navy ships in the Red Sea. The strikes were carried out using U.S.-made F-18 Hornet fighter jets.

A Houthi spokesperson asserted that the group will continue its attacks until the end of the Gaza conflict. The United States, however, justified its actions as a measure to defend itself and its allies.

The incident marks a significant escalation in regional tensions and raises concerns about the wider implications of the conflict.