Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels launched a ballistic missile at Israel early on Sunday. Israeli forces intercepted it before it crossed into the country, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Sirens sounded at around 5 a.m. in several towns across the Arava region, south of the Dead Sea.
Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea claimed the missile targeted Nevatim Airbase in the Negev desert. It was the second day in a row the group said it had attacked the site.
No injuries or damage were reported.
New early warning system activated
Before the sirens, authorities issued a mobile alert across a wide area in southern Israel. The warning aimed to alert civilians to the threat of a long-range missile.
Israel recently launched this new warning system. However, it has faced early technical issues, including missed alerts and warnings sent to areas larger than necessary.
A similar incident occurred on Saturday. Houthis fired another missile, which they claimed also targeted Nevatim Airbase, setting off sirens in the Beersheba area.
Houthi attacks continue amid international response
Since 18 March, the Houthis have fired more than 20 ballistic missiles and several drones at Israel. About half triggered sirens and were intercepted. The others fell short of Israeli territory.
Sirens often force hundreds of thousands of people to run to shelters, sometimes causing injuries during the rush. Falling debris from interceptions has also occasionally caused injuries and damage.
The Houthis began attacking Israel and maritime traffic in November 2023, a month after the Hamas attack on 7 October. Their official slogan contains strong anti-American and anti-Israel messages.
In recent weeks, the United States has carried out large-scale airstrikes in Yemen. These strikes have targeted Houthi leadership and infrastructure.
