Houthi Group Launches Ballistic Missiles at Tel Aviv
On December 19, 2024, the Yemeni Houthi group released footage claiming to show the launch of two hypersonic ballistic missiles targeting the Jaffa area of Tel Aviv, Israel. The missiles, identified as Palestine 2, were aimed at Israeli military installations, according to Al-Masirah TV, which is affiliated with the Houthis. This military action was described by Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree as a response to what he termed 'Israeli aggression' against Yemen and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Context of the Conflict
The missile launch comes amid escalating tensions in the region, particularly following a series of Israeli airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. Earlier on the same day, the Israeli military reported that it had conducted air raids targeting Houthi positions, resulting in casualties and damage to infrastructure, including ports and energy facilities in the capital, Sanaa, and the Red Sea province of Hodeidah. These strikes have reportedly killed nine individuals and injured three others. This marks the third Israeli attack on Yemen since the onset of the Gaza conflict in October 2023.
Humanitarian Impact and Ongoing Violence
The ongoing conflict has had devastating humanitarian consequences, with reports indicating that the Israeli operations in Gaza have resulted in over 152,000 casualties, including many children and women. The Houthi group has vowed to continue its missile and drone strikes against Israeli targets until the military actions in Gaza cease. The situation remains tense, with both sides engaging in retaliatory strikes, further complicating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
