On July 19, 2024, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels launched a deadly drone attack on Tel Aviv, Israel, killing one person and injuring at least 10 others. The attack, using an Iranian-made Samad-3 drone, targeted a building near the US Embassy annex in central Tel Aviv, causing significant damage to surrounding structures.This attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, as it represents the first lethal attack by the Houthis on Israeli soil. The drone, which the Houthis claim is a new type called ‘Yafa’ or ‘Yaffo’, was able to evade Israel’s sophisticated air defense systems due to what Israeli military officials described as a ‘human error’.In response to the attack, Israel is considering a strong military action, potentially including strikes inside Yemen. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has vowed to make those responsible ‘pay a decisive and surprising price’. The Israeli military estimates that around 200 missiles and drones have been launched from Yemen towards Israel since the start of the Gaza War.The Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was carried out in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and threatening further strikes against Israel. This attack comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, including the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza and Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.The incident has raised serious concerns about the potential expansion of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza into a wider regional war. It has also highlighted the vulnerability of Israel’s air defenses to smaller drones, which have been able to evade the country’s defenses in recent months.As international mediators continue efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, this attack on Tel Aviv could potentially lead to further escalation and instability in the region. The situation remains tense as the international community watches closely for Israel’s next move in response to this unprecedented attack.
Key points
- Houthi rebels launched a deadly drone attack on Tel Aviv, killing one and injuring at least 10.
- Israel is considering military strikes inside Yemen in response to the attack.
- The attack marks a significant escalation, being the first lethal Houthi attack on Israeli soil.
- Concerns are rising about the potential expansion of the Gaza conflict into a wider regional war.
Contradictions👾There are conflicting reports about the origin of the drone, with some sources claiming it was launched from Yemen, while others suggest it may have been launched from Syria.
