Houthi Drone Attack Damages Israeli Airport Terminal in Eilat

A drone launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck the Ramon International Airport near Eilat, Israel, on September 7, 2025, marking one of the most significant direct hits by the group on Israeli territory since the escalation of hostilities in the region. The attack, which targeted the airport’s passenger terminal, resulted in injuries to at least eight people, including one man who suffered shrapnel wounds. The incident forced a temporary shutdown of commercial airspace in southern Israel and the diversion of flights, though normal operations resumed within hours.

Rare Breach of Israeli Air Defenses

According to Israeli officials, the country’s multilayered air defense system intercepted three drones launched from Yemen, but failed to detect and stop the fourth, which struck the terminal. The impact blew out glass windows and sent plumes of smoke into the air, causing panic among travelers and staff. The Israeli military acknowledged the lapse and stated it was investigating why air raid sirens did not sound prior to the strike. The Houthis, who claimed responsibility, described the operation as a "unique, qualitative military operation" and warned that other sensitive targets in Israel were also under threat.

Escalating Regional Tensions

The attack came just days after an Israeli airstrike in Yemen killed Houthi Prime Minister Ahmed al-Rahawi and other senior officials, prompting vows of retaliation from the Iran-backed group. Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, the Houthis have repeatedly launched missiles and drones at Israel, often citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. While most of these attacks have been intercepted or caused minimal damage, the successful strike on Ramon Airport underscores the evolving threat posed by Houthi capabilities and the potential for further escalation.

Impact and International Response

Although the physical damage to Ramon Airport was limited and flights quickly resumed, the incident has raised fresh concerns about the effectiveness of Israel’s air defenses and the broader risk of regional destabilization. The Houthis’ ability to penetrate Israeli security measures and strike a civilian airport highlights the growing sophistication of their arsenal and the challenges facing Israeli authorities. International observers have noted that such attacks, if repeated, could have significant implications for civilian air travel and the security of critical infrastructure in Israel and beyond.