A powerful explosion rocked the Al-Houbane area east of Taiz city on Wednesday, following a failed attempt by Houthi forces to launch a ballistic missile, according to local sources and media reports.

Eyewitnesses reported a loud blast that shook residential neighborhoods, sparking panic among civilians. The explosion occurred shortly after the Houthis attempted to fire a missile from a launch site within a populated district. However, the missile malfunctioned and detonated on-site, causing widespread alarm.

Sources revealed that the missile was allegedly intended to target Israeli territory, marking a dangerous escalation in the group’s regional ambitions. The failed launch underscores growing concerns over the Houthis’ use of civilian areas as military platforms, exposing residents to grave risks.

This incident adds to a series of similar mishaps in recent months, as the Houthis continue to convert urban zones into launch pads, often without regard for the safety of local populations.

Local authorities and human rights groups have condemned the practice, calling for international pressure to prevent the militarization of civilian infrastructure and to hold those responsible accountable for endangering lives.