By Iliya Kusa
"Yemeni Houthis have struck Tel Aviv and fired at another commercial vessel in the Red Sea.
One person was killed and ten injured. The attack targeted a street where the US Embassy is located. The Houthis claimed to have used a drone and hit a certain target. Israeli officials reported that debris fell in the area.
This is the first instance of a Houthi strike on central Israel. While attacks on maritime vessels have become routine, the strike on Israel was unexpected. The Houthis had previously attempted to target Israeli territory, including the port of Eilat, but their rockets and drones were usually intercepted. This time, something went wrong, and the alarm systems did not activate.
The Yemeni Houthis retain the capability to harass commercial vessels near the Yemeni coast and even in the Indian Ocean, as well as, as seen, the ability to carry out occasional strikes on Israeli territory, demonstrating their reach. Such attacks do not alter the balance of power in the region but have political and symbolic significance.
The international naval operation "Operation Sentinel," launched by the US and allies last year in response to Houthi attacks, has not yet achieved the desired results. Iran continues to support the Houthis and use them to exert pressure on the US and Israel, including through the modernization of their missile and drone arsenal, as demonstrated by today's attack on Tel Aviv."
Details
A drone strike hit a building located next to the American consulate. The drone traveled over 2,000 kilometers. The siren did not go off. According to the Israel Defense Forces spokesperson, an investigation is currently underway. The engine and other parts of the drone were found at the scene. There is one reported death and 8 injuries.
The Israeli Air Force has increased patrols and is ensuring the protection of the country's airspace.
The Yemeni Houthis have claimed responsibility for the nighttime attack on Tel Aviv.
