Yemen’s Houthi group on Thursday claimed responsibility for launching a long-range “hypersonic ballistic missile” and three drones targeting Israeli cities, further escalating tensions in the region.

In a televised address aired on Houthi-run al-Masirah TV, military spokesman Yahya Sarea said the missile targeted a “military site” in Jaffa, part of Tel Aviv, while the drones were directed at Beer Sheva and the Red Sea port city of Eilat. He warned that Eilat would remain under “continuous targeting” as part of their operations.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), however, reported that air defenses intercepted most of the incoming projectiles. The IDF confirmed that one drone hit a hotel gate in Eilat, causing material damage but no casualties. The strike temporarily disrupted daily life in the city’s hotel zone, a popular tourist hub.

Following the attacks, air raid sirens sounded across central Israel, including the greater Tel Aviv metropolitan area, prompting millions of residents to rush into bomb shelters. Israeli media described widespread alarm, with emergency services quickly responding to ensure no civilian injuries occurred.

The Houthis, who control large parts of northwestern Yemen, have repeatedly launched drone and missile attacks at Israel since the Gaza conflict escalated in October 2023. They describe the strikes as acts of solidarity with Palestinians, demanding an end to Israel’s military campaign and blockade of Gaza.

Israel has consistently retaliated with targeted strikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, seeking to deter further attacks. The ongoing exchanges underscore the widening regional impact of the Gaza war, with Yemen’s Houthis positioning themselves as a key actor challenging Israel.