Iranian-backed rebels in Yemen announced on Sunday evening that they will impose comprehensive air blockade on Israel, in what they said was a response to the Israeli government's decision to expand its war on Hamas in Gaza.

In a statement broadcast by its media outlets, Houthi spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Saree called on international airlines to take the warning seriously to "preserve the safety of their travellers", saying that the decision came into effect immediately.

Sareei said, "We will impose the siege by repeatedly targeting Israeli airports, especially (Ben Gurion) International Airport near Tel Aviv."

The announcement followed the group's missile launch at Israel’s main international airport, which struck near an access road, causing panic among passengers.