Houthi Drone from Yemen Strikes Ashkelon Industrial Zone, IRGC Backing Suspected

Dec 25, 2024, 03:57 PM

A drone launched by the Houthis from Yemen struck an area near Ashkelon in southern Israel, according to multiple reports. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, with sirens warning of a hostile drone attack sounding in Ashkelon and nearby communities. The drone, identified as a one-way attack UAV, reportedly targeted the industrial zone of Ashkelon, striking an electricity generation and oil refining facility. Secondary explosions were observed following the drone's impact. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that they launched two drones, one targeting a 'vital and sensitive target' in the Tel Aviv area and the other aimed at Ashkelon's industrial zone. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that a drone from Yemen crossed into Israeli territory and fell in an open area near the Gaza border. The Houthis' increased attacks on Israel are believed to have the blessing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).