Tel Aviv, Israel – A ballistic missile fired by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck an elementary school in Ramat Gan, Israel, late Wednesday, causing extensive damage but no injuries. The Ramat Ef’al school was hit after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) only partially intercepted the missile, with its warhead slamming into the building.
Ramat Gan Mayor Carmel Shama-Hacohen estimated the damage at NIS 40 million (approximately $11 million) and announced plans to demolish and rebuild the school. He assured residents that students would temporarily relocate to another facility, with psychological support services offered to those affected.
The IDF initially reported successfully intercepting the missile but later confirmed the school was struck by the warhead following an incomplete interception. The attack triggered sirens across central Israel, sending millions to bomb shelters. Nearby parked cars were also damaged by debris from the explosion.
Government Response and Reconstruction Plans
Visiting the site on Thursday, Education Minister Yoav Kisch expressed relief that the incident occurred at night when the school was empty. He stated that students would return to their routine within weeks, as an alternative building was available.
Mayor Shama-Hacohen described the situation as fortunate despite the devastation, saying, “It is lucky there were no children here.” Parents expressed mixed emotions, with some grateful for the timing while others lamented the emotional toll on students.
Military Retaliation Against Houthi Rebels
In response to the attack, Israel Air Force (IAF) jets carried out preplanned strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including ports and the capital, Sana’a. The IDF said the strikes aimed to disrupt weapons deliveries from Iran to the Houthis.
Education Minister Kisch praised the retaliatory operation, stating, “The message that Israel’s strong arm will reach all arenas that act against us must resonate in the Middle East.”
Broader Conflict Escalation
The attack is part of ongoing hostilities between Israel and the Houthi rebels, who have launched over 200 missiles and 170 drones at Israel in the past year, claiming to support Gaza. The IDF noted that most attacks were intercepted or failed to reach their targets. However, some strikes caused damage, including one that killed a civilian in Tel Aviv.
The incident underscores the growing regional tensions as Israel continues its military campaign against Hamas in Gaza, following the group’s deadly assault on October 7, 2023, which left 1,200 dead and 251 hostages taken to Gaza.
Calls for Improved Safety Measures
Meanwhile, residents in nearby cities like Modiin reported shrapnel from IDF interceptors causing minor damage. Modiin Mayor Haim Bibas raised concerns about sirens failing to activate during the attack, pledging to work with the IDF’s Home Front Command to address the issue.
The incident highlights both the dangers posed by Houthi attacks and the need for robust interception capabilities to protect civilians and infrastructure.