On Sunday morning, Israel faced a significant military threat when a hypersonic ballistic missile, fired by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, struck an open area in central Israel. The missile traveled approximately 2,040 kilometers in just 11.5 minutes, raising alarms about the effectiveness of Israel’s air defense systems, which failed to intercept it. The attack resulted in loud explosions and widespread panic, but fortunately, there were no casualties reported.

This incident marks a notable escalation in regional tensions, especially as it is the first time a missile of this range has successfully reached Israeli territory. The Houthis have claimed that this missile represents a technological advancement in their military capabilities, asserting it is a homegrown development. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed retaliation, warning that the Houthis will “pay a heavy price” for the attack. This development adds to a series of previous Houthi assaults on Israeli interests, contributing to the instability in the region as the anniversary of the Gaza war approaches.