A deadly drone attack struck Tel Aviv, Israel, in the early hours of July 19, 2024, killing one person and injuring at least eight others. The explosion occurred near the US embassy annex on Ben Yehuda Street, shattering windows and causing significant damage to surrounding buildings. Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for the attack, stating they used a new type of drone called ‘Yaffo,’ which they claim can evade Israel’s air defense systems and radar detection.The Israeli military confirmed that the explosion was caused by a drone carrying explosives, but admitted to a ‘human error’ that prevented the activation of interception and defense systems. This failure has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of Israel’s air defenses and why no air raid sirens were activated prior to the attack.In response to the attack, Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai announced that the city has been placed on high alert. The Israeli Air Force has increased patrols to protect the country’s airspace, while authorities have urged residents to follow security instructions and avoid touching any debris that may contain explosives.This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, as it represents the first deadly attack by the Houthis on Israeli soil. The Houthi rebels, who have been targeting ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden in recent months, have threatened to continue attacking Israeli cities in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The attack comes amid heightened tensions in the region, following Israel’s recent airstrikes in Lebanon that killed a senior Hezbollah commander.
Key points
- A Houthi drone attack in Tel Aviv killed one person and injured at least eight others.
- The Houthis claim to have used a new type of drone called ‘Yaffo’ that can evade Israel’s air defenses.
- Israeli military admitted to a ‘human error’ that prevented the activation of defense systems.
- The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Contradictions👾There are slight discrepancies in the reported number of injured, ranging from four to ten.
👾Some sources report the attack occurred near the US embassy, while others specify it was near an embassy annex or branch office.
