A missile launched from Yemen on Monday set off air-raid sirens across central Israel, including Tel Aviv, according to reports from international news agencies citing Israeli military sources.

The missile, a surface-to-surface projectile, was aimed at the densely populated region but ultimately landed in an uninhabited area, causing no casualties or damage.

The alert systems were activated in several towns near Tel Aviv, prompting residents to seek shelter.

Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion near the impact zone, which Israeli authorities later confirmed was caused by missile interceptors deployed in response to the incoming threat.

The Israeli military released a statement shortly after the incident, assuring citizens that the missile had not struck a populated area and that no injuries were reported.

“Our defense systems operated as required, ensuring that the missile did not pose any immediate danger to Israeli civilians,” the statement said.

Growing Threats from Yemen

This latest missile launch comes amid growing tensions between Israel and Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, whose long-range drone attacks and missile strikes have targeted Israeli cities in recent months. The incident marks the second major attack on Israel from Yemen this year.

In July, Houthi forces launched a long-range drone strike on Tel Aviv, which resulted in one death and four injuries. That attack, which shocked Israeli citizens and security forces, triggered a fierce response from Israel.

The Israeli Air Force conducted a series of retaliatory airstrikes on Houthi military targets near the Yemeni port of Hudaydah. Three people were killed, and 87 others were injured during the strikes, further escalating tensions in the region.

At the time, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to respond decisively to any future attacks from Yemen. “We will not tolerate threats to our citizens, no matter where they come from. Our military will continue to defend our people with the full force of Israel’s defense capabilities,” Netanyahu said.

Heightened Tensions in the Region

The missile attack from Yemen adds another layer to the already complex security challenges Israel faces in the Middle East.

Tensions between Israel and Iran have been particularly strained, with Iranian proxies, including the Houthi rebels, increasing their efforts to disrupt Israeli security.

Iran has long supported the Houthis in Yemen’s ongoing civil war, providing military aid, training, and weaponry. The Houthis have reciprocated by aligning themselves with Iran’s regional goals, including direct confrontations with Israel.

Analysts suggest that these missile attacks are part of a broader strategy by Iran to keep pressure on Israel through its network of regional allies.

International Reaction

While no official statement had been released by the international community at the time of reporting, previous incidents have drawn swift condemnation.

The United States, a key ally of Israel, has consistently criticized missile and drone attacks launched by Houthi rebels. Experts expect similar reactions to this latest strike, especially given its potential to escalate regional instability.

Despite the threat posed by the missile, Israel’s Iron Dome defense system once again demonstrated its capability to protect the nation from missile strikes. No damage was reported, and life returned to normal in the areas where the sirens had sounded.

Israeli security forces remain on high alert as the situation continues to unfold, with the potential for further retaliatory measures against Houthi positions in Yemen.