New Delhi: The US THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) missile defense system successfully intercepted a ballistic missile launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels targeting Israel on Friday. This marked the first operational use of the THAAD system in Israel since its deployment in October following escalating regional tensions. The missile was intercepted outside Israeli airspace, and sirens blared across central Israel, including the Jerusalem area.

The THAAD is a highly effective, combat-proven defense against short, medium and intermediate-range ballistic missile threats. THAAD is the only US system designed to intercept targets outside and inside the atmosphere.

The interception highlights the growing collaboration between the US and Israel in missile defense. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the missile was neutralized but did not specify whether the interception was conducted by Israeli or American systems. Sources familiar with the operation stated that the THAAD system was responsible, emphasizing the strategic message of US-Israeli partnership to adversaries in the region.

The Houthi attack was the fifth missile launched at Israel in eight days. Although most missiles and drones launched by the Iran-backed group have been intercepted or failed to reach their targets, these attacks continue to disrupt daily life. On Friday, 18 people were lightly injured while rushing to bomb shelters, and two others suffered anxiety attacks.

In response, Israeli warplanes carried out airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, targeting infrastructure such as Sanaa International Airport and other military installations. The Houthis accused the US and Britain of involvement in a fresh airstrike on Sanaa, though no official comments were made by Israel, the US, or Britain.

The Houthis, who openly declare their intent to destroy Israel, have launched over 200 missiles and 170 drones at Israel in the past year. Additionally, they have repeatedly attacked merchant vessels in the Red Sea, disrupting global shipping routes. The group has vowed to continue its assaults until the end of the Gaza conflict, which began with Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.