Aden– A ballistic missile launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen toward Israel crashed before reaching its target, marking the first direct retaliatory strike following recent Israeli military operations in Yemen.

The missile, detected shortly before 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, was intercepted by regional air defense systems and fell in Saudi territory without causing casualties or damage. No sirens were triggered inside Israel, and normal activity continued uninterrupted.

This missile launch represents a significant escalation, as it is the first confirmed attempt by the Houthis to strike Israel in direct response to the latest wave of Israeli operations in Yemen. While previous launches have been sporadic and largely symbolic, this incident underscores the growing regional entanglement and the potential for broader confrontation.

Israeli authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and the Home Front Command is reviewing its alert protocols to ensure readiness for future threats.