Missile fired from Yemen intercepted before reaching Israeli territory

A missile fired from Yemen was intercepted early this morning before entering Israeli airspace, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed.

Sirens were triggered in the Jerusalem and Dead Sea regions around 2:40 a.m. as a precaution against potential falling debris, in line with military protocol.

While the IDF did not specify whether the interception was carried out by an Israeli or U.S. missile defense system, sources indicate that an American system participated in the operation.

This marks the first operational use of the U.S.-deployed missile defense battery since its arrival in Israel in October.

The missile, launched by the Houthi rebel group in Yemen, is part of a larger campaign by the group, which has reportedly fired over 200 missiles and 170 drones toward Israel in the past year.

The Houthis, known for their anti-Israel rhetoric, have intensified their attacks in recent weeks, forcing millions of Israelis to seek shelter during nighttime siren alerts almost daily for the last 10 days.

The IDF stated its readiness to address these ongoing threats, with both Israeli and allied systems working in concert to protect the nation.

The heightened missile activity points to the Houthis’ expanding regional capabilities and their alignment with Iran’s broader strategic objectives.

The group has openly declared its commitment to the destruction of Israel and the Jewish people, raising security concerns not only in Israel but also across the Middle East.