Israel is contemplating a forceful military response, potentially including strikes within Yemen, following a deadly drone attack on Tel Aviv by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels on July 19, 2024. The attack, which killed one person identified as Yefgeni Brader and injured at least 10 others, has shocked Israel and exposed vulnerabilities in its air defense systems.The drone, a new type called ‘Yafa’ by the Houthis, flew approximately 2,000 kilometers from Yemen, taking unconventional routes through Sinai and the Mediterranean Sea to evade Israeli radar systems. The attack occurred near the US Embassy in Tel Aviv, narrowly missing the diplomatic compound. In response to the attack, the US military intercepted two rockets and four drones in the area controlled by the Houthis in Yemen.Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant vowed that those responsible would be held accountable in an ‘unpredictable and decisive manner’. The Israeli military and security agencies are discussing the possibility of launching a strong strike inside Yemen. Since the start of the Gaza War, the Israeli military estimates that around 200 missiles and drones have been launched from Yemen towards Israel.The Houthi military spokesperson claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was carried out in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and threatening further strikes against Israel. This incident has raised serious concerns about the potential expansion of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza into a wider regional war.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
- A Houthi drone attack on Tel Aviv killed one person and injured at least 10 others, evading Israel’s air defenses.
- Israel is considering a strong military response, potentially including strikes inside Yemen.
- The attack has raised concerns about the expansion of the Israel-Hamas conflict into a wider regional war.
- The US military intercepted additional rockets and drones in the area controlled by the Houthis in Yemen.
Contradictions👾While most sources report at least 10 injuries, one source mentions only 8 injured.
There are also slight discrepancies in the reported flight path of the drone, with some sources mentioning it flew over Gaza while others do not include this detail.
