A drone attack in central Tel Aviv has resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries, with Yemen’s Houthi rebels claiming responsibility for the strike.
At a glance:
- One man killed and several injured in drone explosion over central Tel Aviv
- Houthi rebels in Yemen claim responsibility for the attack
- Israeli military admits to “human error” in failing to intercept the drone
- Incident marks significant escalation in Houthi attacks on Israel
In the early hours of July 19, central Tel Aviv was rocked by a drone explosion that struck several buildings, killing one person and injuring multiple others. The attack, which Yemen’s Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for, represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Attack Details and Response
Israeli military officials believe the drone was Iranian-made and launched from Yemen, over 1,000 miles away. The explosion occurred around 3:15 am local time, with emergency services reporting one fatality – a man in his 50s who suffered fatal shrapnel wounds in his apartment.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant vowed to “settle the score” in response to the attack. The Israeli military has increased air patrols to protect Israeli airspace but has not ordered new civil defense measures.
Houthi Capabilities and Claims
A Houthi military spokesman, Yahya Saree, stated that the strike was conducted with a new drone capable of bypassing interception systems. The group declared Tel Aviv “an unsafe area” and a “primary target” for future attacks.
The Israeli military admitted to a “human error” in failing to intercept the incoming drone, despite detecting it. This incident marks the first successful long-range Houthi attack on Israel, as previous attempts have been intercepted.
Broader Context
The Houthis, an Iran-backed group, have launched numerous maritime attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden in recent months, claiming solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. These attacks have caused significant disruption to shipping and commerce in the region.
The drone strike comes amid heightened tensions, with Israel recently confirming the killing of a senior Hezbollah commander in southern Lebanon. Both Hezbollah and the Houthis, supported by Iran, claim to be acting in support of Palestinians.