Tel Aviv – A surface-to-surface ballistic missile fired from Yemen towards central Israel was intercepted by Israeli air defenses outside the country’s borders, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Saturday. The missile was shot down using the Arrow long-range missile defense system, which is specifically designed to neutralize ballistic threats.
Sirens were activated across central Israel, raising concerns of falling debris from the intercepted missile. The IDF clarified that the missile was successfully neutralized before entering Israeli airspace, and an investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Netanyahu Cuts US Trip Short Following Nasrallah Assassination
In related developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu returned early from a diplomatic trip to the United States following the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Upon landing at Ben Gurion Airport, Netanyahu headed directly to a security briefing, according to Hebrew media reports.
IDF Continues Strikes on Hezbollah Targets in Lebanon
The IDF has also confirmed ongoing airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon. In the latest wave of attacks, Israeli forces targeted rocket launchers aimed at Israel, weapons storage facilities, and other Hezbollah infrastructure. The military released footage of some of the strikes.
Russia Condemns Nasrallah Assassination, Warns of Regional Consequences
Meanwhile, Russia has strongly condemned Israel’s assassination of Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, warning that the action could lead to heightened instability in the Middle East. In a statement, Russia’s Foreign Ministry called for an immediate halt to hostilities in Lebanon, cautioning that the situation could result in “even greater dramatic consequences” for the region.
