A drone launched from Yemen struck the arrivals hall at Ramon Airport, located near the coastal city of Eilat, prompting a security investigation by the Israeli military. The incident, which occurred on October 15, 2023, led to the closure of airspace above the airport, as reported by the Israel Airports Authority.
Details surrounding the drone strike remain limited. The Israeli military confirmed that it is reviewing the incident but has not disclosed the extent of the damage or whether the drone was intercepted before impact. Earlier reports indicated that the Israeli air force had successfully intercepted three other drones launched from Yemen, although specifics about one of the drones remain unclear.
Initial assessments from the scene indicated that the drone may not have been detected by the air force’s surveillance systems, raising concerns about the efficacy of aerial defense measures. According to Israeli media outlet Haaretz, two individuals sustained minor injuries during the attack—one man, aged 63, was injured by shrapnel, while a 52-year-old woman suffered injuries after falling. Both were transported to a hospital in Eilat, and additional medical assistance was provided on-site for those experiencing panic attacks.
Context of Ongoing Conflict
The drone strike is part of a broader pattern of aggression from the Houthi forces in Yemen, who have been targeting Israeli territories with missiles and drones. The Houthis assert that these actions are in solidarity with the Palestinians amid ongoing Israeli military operations. Since the onset of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza in October 2023, the Houthis have also targeted vessels in the Red Sea.
The Israeli military has retaliated against Houthi positions, including airstrikes on critical infrastructure such as the Hodeidah port in Yemen. A significant Israeli airstrike on October 8 resulted in the deaths of senior Houthi officials, including the group’s prime minister.
In a related incident earlier this year, a Houthi missile struck near Israel’s main airport, Ben Gurion International Airport, resulting in injuries to four people and causing widespread flight cancellations. Following that event, Israel targeted and destroyed the main airport in Sanaa, the capital of Yemen.
The recent drone strike at Ramon Airport underscores the complex and escalating tensions in the region, raising questions about security measures in place to protect critical infrastructure. As investigations continue, both the Israeli military and local authorities are expected to reassess their strategies in light of these developments.