Eilat, Israel — Sept. 8, 2025. Yemen’s Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for a drone attack on Ramon International Airport in southern Israel, an incident that briefly halted flights and heightened regional tensions.
According to Israeli authorities, several drones were launched toward the airport near Eilat early Monday. Defense forces intercepted some of them, but at least one drone managed to breach the country’s air defenses and struck near the runway. The blast damaged parts of the facility and forced the evacuation of passengers. Officials confirmed there were no fatalities, though a number of travelers sustained minor injuries.
Houthi Claim of Responsibility
In a televised statement, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree described the strike as retaliation for what he called Israel’s “continued aggression and blockade in the region.” He warned that more attacks on “strategic sites” could follow if tensions escalate.
The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, have previously targeted Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. However, the attack on Ramon marks one of the group’s boldest moves against Israel itself, expanding the scope of the ongoing conflict.
Disruption to Air Travel
The Israel Airports Authority said Ramon Airport was shut down for several hours as security teams swept the grounds. Flights were suspended, diverted, or delayed, affecting hundreds of passengers. Normal operations later resumed under heightened security measures.
Regional Reactions
The attack immediately drew international concern:
- Israel accused Iran of supplying the Houthis with advanced drone technology.
- The United States condemned the strike, stressing Israel’s right to self-defense.
- The United Nations called for restraint, warning against further targeting of civilian infrastructure.
Why It Matters
The incident underscores the rising role of drones in modern warfare and the growing reach of Yemen’s Houthi movement. Analysts warn that the strike not only threatens Israeli security but could also destabilize an already fragile Middle East.
Flights have resumed at Ramon Airport, but with military defenses on high alert, the region now faces the prospect of further escalation.
