Dozens Injured in Eilat as a Drone Launched from Yemen Explodes

Israeli media sources have reported that 22 people were injured, two seriously, after a drone launched from Yemen crashed and exploded in a tourist area in the southern city of Eilat.

Details of the Attack and Israeli Response

The sound of explosions and plumes of smoke were reported in the city following the drone's crash. The injured were transported from Eilat to hospitals in central Israel by helicopter. Israeli police stated that the drone caused injuries and property damage and that they are conducting an on-site assessment.

The Israeli military confirmed that it attempted to intercept the drone but failed. According to the army radio, the drone flew at a low altitude, which made it difficult for the Iron Dome system to intercept. The newspaper "Israel Hayom" also reported that two Iron Dome interceptor missiles failed to shoot down the drone.

Israel’s Channel 13 indicated that the Air Force will investigate the delay in detecting the Yemeni drone and the failure to shoot it down.

Context of the Attack

Ansar Allah (Houthi) group, which controls large parts of Yemen, has carried out dozens of missile attacks on Israel and on ships in the Red Sea with confirmed ties to Israel. These attacks are part of their stated support for the Palestinians, particularly in light of what is described as a genocide committed by Israel in Gaza since October 7, 2023.

Israel has ignored international calls and orders from the International Court of Justice to halt its operations, which have included killing, starvation, destruction, and forced displacement.