JERUSALEM, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- Israel intercepted a surface-to-surface missile fired from Yemen on Tuesday, Israel's military said, shortly after Israeli warplanes struck the Yemeni port of Hodeidah.
The missile triggered air raid sirens across central and southern Israel, including Tel Aviv and Ashdod, as well as Jerusalem and parts of the occupied West Bank.
There were no immediate reports of casualties, and the Houthis have not made any announcements yet.
The attack came hours after Israeli warplanes struck the port city of Hodeidah in western Yemen in the afternoon.
Eyewitnesses in Hodeidah reported that the strikes targeted three landing stages at the port, triggering large fires. The Houthi-run al-Masirah TV said Israeli jets conducted at least 12 airstrikes, with no immediate reports on casualties or damage.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the strike aimed to ensure the continuation of the naval and aerial blockade against the Houthis.
Houthi forces have repeatedly targeted Israel since November 2023, citing support for Palestinians during Israel's war in Gaza. Israel has responded with airstrikes on Houthi-held areas, including the Red Sea port of Hodeidah.
The latest developments followed Israel's launch of a large-scale ground incursion into Gaza City and a United Nations commission report accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians. ■
