Overnight, a rocket fired from Yemen struck an area of Tel Aviv, causing injuries to 16 people due to shattered glass, as reported by the Israeli military. This incident occurred shortly after Israeli airstrikes targeted Houthi rebels who had been launching missiles in support of Palestinians in Gaza. Additionally, 14 individuals sustained minor injuries while seeking shelter during the air raid sirens.
The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that they aimed a hypersonic ballistic missile at a military target, although specifics were not provided. Residents described the chaos and damage caused by the rocket, with shattered glass strewn across affected buildings.
Following the Israeli airstrikes on Houthi-held areas in Yemen, including Sanaa and Hodeida, at least nine people were killed. These strikes were in response to a Houthi missile hitting an Israeli school building. The Houthis also allegedly carried out a drone strike on a military target in central Israel.
Israel's military has reported over 200 missile and drone launches by the Iran-backed Houthis during the recent conflict with Hamas in Gaza. The Houthis have targeted shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, vowing to continue until a ceasefire is achieved in Gaza.
Israeli Strikes in Gaza Result in Civilian Casualties
Meanwhile, in Gaza, mourners gathered for funerals of 19 individuals, including 12 children, who were killed in Israeli airstrikes. The strikes hit residential areas, including a refugee camp and a house in Gaza City, resulting in multiple casualties, including women and children.
Israel has faced criticism for the high number of civilian deaths in Gaza, with the Health Ministry reporting over 45,200 Palestinian fatalities since October 2023. The ministry highlighted the impact on women and children, emphasizing the toll of the ongoing conflict.
Urgent Appeal for Supplies in Northern Gaza
Gaza's Health Ministry issued a plea for medical and food supplies at Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya, which is facing dire conditions amid ongoing Israeli military operations. The hospital director described severe shortages and the urgent need for essential supplies to care for the wounded.
Despite challenges in aid distribution due to military operations, efforts are being made to deliver food packages and supplies to affected areas. The Israeli military's humanitarian affairs organization has coordinated deliveries of essential items to support communities in need.
Incident in Syria
In a separate development, Iran reported the killing of a local embassy staffer in Syria by unknown gunmen. The incident underscores ongoing security concerns in the region, with Iran calling on Syrian authorities to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the attack.
For more updates on the conflict, visit AP's war coverage.