Houthis claim ballistic missile and drone attack on Ben Gurion Airport and southern Israel — 7th Houthi attack on Israel since March 28; no confirmed impacts

The Houthis claimed on April 5 that they launched a ballistic missile and several drones targeting Ben Gurion Airport in central Israel, as well as unspecified 'vital IDF military targets' in southern Israel. The group stated the operation was conducted in coordination with Iran and Hezbollah. This marks the seventh Houthi attack on Israel since the group entered the conflict on March 28. At the time of ISW's reporting, no impacts at Ben Gurion Airport had been confirmed. ISW assesses that the Houthis' involvement in the war appears calibrated to try to avoid immediate escalation with the United States and Israel while still demonstrating solidarity with Iran. The group has maintained a consistent pattern of claiming attacks that have limited operational impact but carry symbolic significance. The targeting of Ben Gurion Airport — Israel's primary international airport — is symbolically significant even without confirmed impacts, as it signals the Houthis' intent to threaten Israeli civilian infrastructure and economic activity. The Houthis have demonstrated the capability to launch ballistic missiles toward Israel from Yemen, though interception rates remain high.