A ballistic missile fired by Iran-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen targeted Israel on Sunday morning, according to The Times of Israel. The missile was successfully intercepted by Israel's air defense systems before it could cause any damage. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that no casualties or property damage were reported, though sirens blared across central Israel, causing panic among residents.

This marks the fifth Houthi attack on Israel since the IDF renewed its offensive against Hamas in Gaza on Tuesday. The Houthis, who have been increasingly active in Yemen, recently accused the United States of attacking their positions in the port city of Hodeidah and vowed retaliation. Their latest missile launch follows a pattern of escalating hostilities in the region.

Meanwhile, tensions flared further as the IDF conducted airstrikes and artillery fire in southern Lebanon on Saturday (March 22). Israeli authorities claimed the strikes were in response to rocket fire from Lebanon, which they also intercepted. This exchange threatens the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanese armed group, reigniting fears of a broader conflict.

The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have significantly expanded their military capabilities and territorial control in Yemen, posing a growing threat to regional stability. Since capturing Yemen's capital, Sanaa, in 2014, the Houthis have been engaged in a protracted civil war against a Saudi-led coalition. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and a severe humanitarian crisis, with no end in sight.

As the Gaza conflict intensifies and regional tensions rise, the latest missile attack and subsequent Israeli strikes underscore the volatile and interconnected nature of Middle Eastern geopolitics.