Houthi Attack Using Palestine-2 Hypersonic Ballistic Missile Strikes Ben Gurion Airport, Leaving 25-Meter Crater

A ballistic missile launched from Yemen struck Ben Gurion International Airport leaving a crater measuring 25 meters deep. This incident marks a significant failure for Israel’s air defense system

Israeli officials reported that the attack resulted in 11 injuries, with six individuals suffering moderate injuries and five others sustaining minor injuries. The (IDF) confirmed that the missile was indeed launched from Yemen and acknowledged an unsuccessful interception attempt. Both the Israeli Arrow 3 system and the American THAAD were deployed to neutralize the threat, but they failed to prevent the missile’s impact. An IDF statement indicated that “a projectile was recorded falling in the airport area.

Footage captured the moment of the strike, revealed substantial damage to the airport. Local media indicated that the Houthis used a Palestine-2 hypersonic ballistic missile, which they claim is designed to evade modern air defense mechanisms.

Houthi spokesman Yahya Saria, stated that the attack targeted a “military facility in the airport area” and was a direct response to Israeli airstrikes on Yemen. He further asserted that the Houthi movement would continue its attacks until “Israeli aggression against Palestine ceases.”

Military experts have suggested that the missile’s hypersonic speed and complex trajectory have contributed to the interception failure. Analysts speculate that this incident may compel Israel to reassess its air defense strategy.

The international community reacted swiftly to the missile strike. Several foreign airlines, including Lufthansa and British Airways, canceled flights to Israel, seeking clarification regarding flight safety.

The Israeli Civil Aviation Authority temporarily suspended operations at Ben Gurion Airport, redirecting flights to alternative airports. The decision caused significant disruptions for passengers

The attack occurs against a backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East. Since October 2023, the Houthis have intensified rocket assaults on Israel, expressing solidarity with the Palestinian movement Hamas. The Houthis previously attempted to strike Ben Gurion Airport in March 2025, that missile was intercepted. This latest incident marks the first successful strike by a Yemeni missile on a key Israeli transportation hub.