The Israeli military is currently investigating a drone strike that hit the arrivals hall at Ramon Airport near Eilat, which was reportedly launched from Yemen. This incident prompted the closure of airspace above the airport, as confirmed by the Israel Airports Authority on Sunday. Details regarding the specific circumstances of the drone’s impact remain unclear, including whether it was intercepted or struck directly.
In a statement, the Israeli military indicated that the situation was under review but did not provide further information on the extent of the damage or the drone’s trajectory. Earlier reports noted that the air force successfully intercepted three drones originating from Yemen, with two intercepted before they crossed into Israeli airspace. The status of the third drone remains unspecified.
According to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, citing local rescue services, two individuals sustained minor injuries in the drone strike. A 63-year-old man was hurt by shrapnel, and a 52-year-old woman was injured after falling during the incident. Emergency responders transported both to a hospital in Eilat, while additional individuals suffering from panic attacks received treatment at the scene.
Investigation and Background
A preliminary investigation reported by Israeli Army Radio suggested that the drone had not been detected by the air force’s monitoring systems. Ramon Airport, situated near the border with Jordan and Egypt, primarily serves domestic flights and is a key point for tourism in the region.
The Houthis in Yemen have claimed responsibility for launching missiles and drones towards Israel, framing these actions as solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing Israeli military operations. Since the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hamas in October 2023, the group has also targeted vessels in the Red Sea.
There has yet to be an official response from the Houthis regarding the drone strike on Ramon Airport. The escalation of conflict has seen Israel conducting airstrikes on Houthi-controlled regions in Yemen, including a significant attack on the critical Hodeidah port. This recent military action reportedly resulted in the deaths of high-ranking Houthi officials, including their prime minister.
In a related incident earlier this year, a Houthi missile struck near Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, causing minor injuries to four people and leading to significant disruptions in airline operations to Israel. In retaliation, Israel destroyed the main airport in Sanaa, Yemen’s capital, further intensifying the conflict.
As the investigation into the drone strike continues, the implications for regional security and the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Houthis remain significant. The situation highlights the complex dynamics of military engagements in the Middle East and the impact on civilian populations in the affected areas.
