Israel: Massive Crater Caused by Houthi Missile Near Ben Gurion Airport

Scenes of panic unfolded near Ben Gurion Airport, Israel’s main international hub in Tel Aviv, following a missile attack today (04.05.2025) launched by Yemeni rebels. A massive crater was formed at the site, with a plume of smoke rising into the sky, causing alarm among those present at the airport. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who claimed responsibility for the missile strike, have intensified their attacks on Israel, stating they act in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. A senior Israeli police official, Yaïr Hezroni, showed reporters the crater caused by the missile impact, which authorities said landed near a road adjacent to a parking area close to Terminal 3. ‘You can see the scene right behind us: a crater has formed there, dozens of meters wide and deep,’ Hezroni stated, adding that significant damage was avoided. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned, ‘Whoever strikes us will be hit seven times harder.’ Sirens blared across central Israel shortly before the impact, including areas near Tel Aviv. Reuters journalists at the airport reported hearing sirens and witnessing passengers rushing to designated safe rooms. Eight people were hospitalized, including one man with minor to moderate limb injuries and two women with head injuries. Flights were disrupted due to the incident, with some cancellations and delays reported. Despite this, airport authorities confirmed that operations have resumed normally. Iranian-backed Houthi militants reiterated warnings to airlines that the Israeli airport is no longer safe for air travel. The Israeli security cabinet will convene tonight at 7:00 PM local time to discuss further actions.