Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-05-22 at 09:04

HEADLINES
Yemen Houthi Missile Attacks Ignite Israeli Panic
Iran-Backed Forces Escalate War on Multiple Fronts
Israeli Security Under Siege Amid Heightened Regional Tensions

The time is now 05:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.

At 5 a.m., Israel remains under a multi-front barrage of attacks amid ongoing hostilities with Iran and its proxies across seven key fronts. The Israel Defense Forces confirmed intercepting a missile launched from Yemen by Houthi militants, marking the eleventh missile alert since early May and the second within the past nine hours. The IDF states that the missile was intercepted successfully, and all systems responded according to established policies. This escalation follows recent reports of coordinated missile and drone attacks, including a ballistic missile targeting Ben Gurion Airport and additional strikes directed at Yafa and Haifa, carried out by Houthi forces, who also claimed successful hits that caused temporary disruptions at the airport and prompted mass evacuations.

Meanwhile, the military reports increased activity from pro-Houthi sources, with statements claiming successful missions using ballistic and drone technology, causing chaos and mass evacuations among Israeli civilians. The Houthis' military spokesperson announced the launching of a ballistic missile towards Ben Gurion, alongside two drones directed at Yafa and Haifa, with claims of achieving their objectives, including triggering widespread panic and halting air traffic temporarily. The group also indicated plans for a large rally in Sanaa later this week, signaling ongoing mobilization.

In another development, Israeli sirens sounded across numerous regions, including Jerusalem, the Sharon corridor, and central Israel, following confirmed missile launches from Yemen. The military's radar systems deployed in multiple areas, including Jerusalem, the Jordan Valley, and the Negev, identified incoming threats, prompting immediate protective measures. Authorities urge civilians to seek shelter and stay in protected spaces for at least ten minutes upon siren activation.

In the international arena, Iran-backed groups continue to escalate their engagement, with reports indicating ongoing missile launches and drone activity directed at Israeli territory. The Israeli government emphasizes that its military is actively responding to these threats, with air defense systems operating effectively to neutralize incoming projectiles. The security situation remains tense, with ongoing alerts and military readiness across the country.

Domestically, Israel is also dealing with other challenges. An incident of violence in Nazareth resulted in a 20-year-old man sustaining moderate injuries during an outbreak of unrest. Additionally, Israeli authorities have indicted an 18-year-old from Ashdod accused of acting as an Iranian agent, having engaged in serious security offenses, including providing information to Iran, vandalizing symbols of the state, and attempting to sabotage military personnel.

On the cultural front, amid the heightened security climate, Israeli institutions continue their activities. Notably, at the Ashkelon Academic College, a tribute was paid to singer Zion Golan for his contributions to preserving Yemenite Jewish music, alongside recognition for researcher Dr. Moshe Gavra for his work on Yemenite Jewish scholars. These events highlight ongoing efforts to maintain cultural heritage despite the ongoing conflict.

As the situation develops, Israel remains on high alert. The military advises the public to adhere strictly to safety protocols and stay informed through official channels. The country braces for possible further hostilities, with the government and security agencies prepared to respond decisively to any new threats. We will continue to monitor the situation and...