Israel’s southern airport faced a drone attack launched by Houthi militants from Yemen, breaching Israel’s air defenses and causing a temporary closure of commercial airspace in the region. The Israeli military reported that multiple drones were intercepted before reaching Israeli territory, but one managed to evade defense systems, hitting the passenger terminal at Ramon International Airport near Eilat.
The attack, claimed by the Houthis, resulted in minor damage to the airport, with a 63-year-old man treated for light shrapnel injuries. The airport resumed normal operations shortly after the incident.
The drone strike followed recent Israeli airstrikes on Sanaa, the capital of Yemen under Houthi control, which led to the death of the Houthi prime minister and government officials. The escalating conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Houthi group has been ongoing for nearly two years.
In response to Israel’s actions, the Houthis intensified their attacks, targeting airports and ships in the region. The strike at Ramon Airport was hailed by the Houthis as a significant military operation.
Before the airport attack, the Israeli military intercepted three Houthi drones near the Egypt-Israel border but failed to detect the fourth drone that hit Ramon Airport without triggering air raid sirens. The Houthis have been utilizing advanced tactics, including cluster munitions, challenging Israel’s defense systems.
While drone and missile attacks on Israel have been frequent since the conflict with Hamas began, they have rarely caused significant damage to key targets like airports. However, a previous Houthi missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport led to the temporary cancellation of international flights to Tel Aviv.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s commitment to the operation in Gaza City, aiming to weaken the influence of the Iranian-backed axis in the region. Netanyahu stated that over 100,000 Palestinians had evacuated Gaza City in anticipation of the military operation.
Despite international organizations disputing the evacuation figures, concerns remain about the safety of civilians in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has resulted in casualties, including the deaths of Palestinians, with the Gaza Health Ministry reporting a significant toll on civilians.
Efforts to restart negotiations between Israel and Hamas have faced challenges, with Hamas insisting on an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. However, Hamas expressed willingness to engage in a long-term truce and release hostages in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
As negotiations stall, uncertainties linger over the future of the conflict, with both sides awaiting responses to ceasefire proposals. The situation remains tense, with hostages still held in Gaza amid complex demands and conditions for peace talks.