Yemen’s Houthi group has claimed responsibility for launching a hypersonic ballistic missile at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, marking a major escalation in the group’s ongoing campaign of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. The missile, fired late Friday night, was reportedly intercepted by Israel’s air defense systems.

Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea stated on Houthi-run al-Masirah TV that the attack was in support of the “besieged Palestinian people” and declared that further missile operations would continue until Israel ends its blockade on Gaza.

Israel’s military confirmed the missile was intercepted and noted that air raid sirens sounded across the country, causing temporary suspension of air traffic. No casualties or damage were reported.

This marks the Houthis’ second missile strike toward Israel in 48 hours and the seventh such attack this month. The group’s increasing use of missiles and drones has effectively imposed a partial air embargo over Israeli airspace, prompting delays and rerouting by international airlines.

Since the Gaza war began in October 2023, the Houthis have launched dozens of missiles and drones toward Israel, most of which were intercepted or missed. In retaliation, Israel has conducted airstrikes on Houthi-controlled ports and infrastructure in Yemen.

Earlier this week, the United Kingdom reported that four crew members from the Liberia-flagged vessel Eternity-C were killed in a Houthi attack in the Red Sea, with others still missing. The Houthis have threatened further maritime attacks against vessels perceived to support Israel.

The Houthi leadership has urged the Arab and Muslim world to support Gaza by breaking the blockade and delivering humanitarian aid.