Eilat (Ramon Airport), Israel

On Sunday, September 7, 2025, a drone launched by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels struck near Ramon International Airport in southern Israel, prompting an immediate airspace shutdown and halting all flights in and out of the airport. The incident resulted in at least one person being injured.

Drone attack sparks emergency response

Shortly after the strike, smoke was seen rising near the airport’s arrivals hall, and emergency services rapidly mobilised to the scene. The Israeli military confirmed the attack and activated safety protocols.

A 63-year-old man and a 52-year-old woman were treated for injuries sustained from shrapnel, while others reported minor blast-related symptoms.

Airspace closure, then reopening

Operations at Ramon Airport were suspended for approximately two hours following the drone impact. Safety checks and security assessments were conducted, and once approved by the Air Force, the airport reopened. Scheduled flights—particularly those to and from Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv—resumed shortly thereafter.

A rare direct hit comes amid escalating conflict

This drone strike represents a notable escalation by the Houthis, marking a rare successful hit on Israeli soil in recent months. Since the 2023 Gaza conflict began, the group has claimed responsibility for numerous missile and drone attacks on Israel and shipping in the Red Sea.

The strike follows recent Israeli air operations in Yemen, including attacks that killed senior Houthi officials—actions that reportedly prompted retaliatory strikes by the group.

Broader implications for security and geopolitics

  • This incident expands the conflict beyond immediate combat zones, highlighting growing regional security vulnerabilities—even at critical infrastructure like airports.

  • It exposes limitations in Israel’s air defence systems, given the strike was neither intercepted nor preceded by warning sirens.

  • The attack may prompt heightened military and diplomatic responses, especially as tensions continue between the Houthis, Israel, and their respective allies.