(VIDEO) Houthi-Launched Suicide Drone Strikes Israel’s Capital, Tel Aviv
(VIDEO) An Israeli military spokesperson stated that they believe the suicide drone launched by the Houthi group was of the “Sammad-3” type, which has been upgraded in terms of range, enabling it to fly as far as Tel Aviv.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Israeli defense and military analysts are puzzled by how an explosive-laden drone, launched by the Houthi armed group, managed to travel thousands of kilometers and strike Israel’s capital, Tel Aviv.
This marks the first time an armed group has successfully attacked Israel’s capital.
A viral video on social media shows the drone, originating from Yemen, flying over the sea before approaching a residential area in Tel Aviv and detonating.
The military analysts are particularly concerned about how this low-tech drone evaded Israel’s sophisticated air defense systems, including the “Iron Dome,” to reach its target.
The attack, which occurred around 3 AM in Tel Aviv, resulted in one fatality and ten injuries.
The drone exploded near the US Embassy, although it remains unclear whether the embassy was the intended target.
Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree stated that the attack was carried out with a new drone capable of bypassing enemy defense systems.
“We will continue our attacks against enemy positions in response to their atrocities against our brothers in Gaza. Our operations will only cease when the brutality and siege against the Palestinian people in Gaza end,” he declared.
The Israeli military frequently intercepts missile and drone attacks from armed groups, but this incident stands out as the Houthi drone successfully struck Tel Aviv.
An Israeli military spokesperson identified the drone as a modified “Sammad-3,” enhanced to extend its range to reach Tel Aviv.
The Houthi group refers to the drone that evaded Israel’s air defenses as “Yafa.”
The “Sammad-3” drone has been previously deployed by the Houthis against Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the Israeli port city of Eilat on the Red Sea near Jordan.
Developed with Iranian technology, the “Sammad-3” drone likely includes components and systems produced by the Houthis with Iranian assistance.
However, its core components and technology originate from Iran. With a wingspan of 4.5 meters, the “Sammad-3” or “Yafa” drone can travel distances ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 kilometers. — DSA
