A drone attack launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck southern Israel on Sunday, hitting Ramon International Airport near Eilat and prompting a shutdown of the region’s airspace. The Israeli military confirmed that multiple drones were launched and that at least one impacted the airport’s passenger hall, lightly injuring one person with shrapnel. The Houthis claimed responsibility, describing the strike as a “qualitative military operation” and warning that “enemy airports are unsafe.”
The attack follows an Israeli airstrike in Sanaa that killed Houthi Prime Minister Ahmed al‑Rahawi, an event that appears to have escalated tensions between the two sides. Since then, the rebels have intensified their operations, employing drones, missiles and cluster munitions—weaponry that is more difficult to intercept.
Ramon Airport, Israel’s secondary hub near the Red Sea, was significantly affected. Although smaller than Ben Gurion Airport, its closure raises concerns about regional air safety amid the growing conflict. Opened in 2019, the airport plays a crucial role in the local aviation industry, and the shutdown of airspace could have far‑reaching consequences for Israel and neighboring countries.
The incident underscores the need for heightened security measures at regional airports, especially given the increasing threat of drone attacks. The use of cluster munitions, which many nations have banned because of their indiscriminate nature, has also drawn criticism of the rebels’ tactics. As the conflict escalates, the international community is likely to watch closely, seeking ways to prevent further violence and promote a peaceful resolution.
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