Israel’s defense systems were put to the test Sunday when a hypersonic ballistic missile launched by Yemen’s Houthis penetrated its defenses, landing in an open area in central Israel. This is the first time such a long-range missile has successfully hit Israel, traveling over 2,000 kilometers. Israeli defenses, including Iron Dome and Arrow, were unable to intercept it.
The Houthis have claimed that this missile is part of a new, domestically produced arsenal. While the group has a history of relying on Iranian assistance, this missile represents a new level of threat. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that the Houthis will face severe consequences for this attack.