Houthi Drone Strike in Israel: 22 Injured in Eilat Attack
A drone launched from Yemen by the Houthi group struck the southern Israeli city of Eilat on Wednesday, injuring at least 22 people, two of whom are in critical condition, according to sources including the Israeli national ambulance service, Magen David Adom and Israel's Channel 13.
Background and Context
The seaside town of Eilat, a popular resort city bordering the Red Sea, was hit by a Yemeni drone, marking an escalation in the exchange of attacks between the Houthis and Israel. The recent drone attack comes in the wake of the reported death of Yemen's Houthi Prime Minister, Ahmed al-Rahawi, along with other officials during an Israeli air strike in August.
Attack Details
The drone, flying at a low altitude, evaded interception by the Iron Dome missile defence system, as reported by Israeli Army Radio and other sources. The unmanned aircraft exploded in a shopping area, injuring over 20 people and causing significant damage. Two of the victims are said to be in critical condition. The wounded are receiving medical treatment and have been referred to Yoseftal Hospital, according to The Times of Israel.
The Houthi group claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was carried out in response to the genocide in Gaza
. A Houthi military spokesperson said, We attacked several Israeli enemy targets in the areas of Umm al-Rashrash (Eilat) and Beersheba. The operation was carried out using a number of drones and successfully achieved its objectives.
The group also pledged to continue their actions until the aggression against you stops and the siege is lifted.
Reactions and Implications
The drone strike on Eilat, a third attack in less than two weeks, reflects the ongoing conflict between the Houthi movement and Israel. The recent escalation comes after the Houthis began launching missile and drone attacks on Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza following the Hamas-led attack on October 7.
The Israeli army and the Houthi group have exchanged accusations and retaliations, raising concerns about further instability in the region. Following the drone attack, the Israeli army stated that air defence systems had failed to stop the attack, a point of concern given the recent increase in Houthi drone and missile activity.
Current Status
At present, the situation remains tense as the Houthi group continues to claim responsibility for drone strikes against Israel. With two people in critical condition and many more injured, the city of Eilat reels from the impact of this latest attack. As the conflict between Israel and the Houthis persists, the international community watches with increasing concern.