Overview

• Israel’s military said a UAV launched from Yemen hit central Eilat near a tourist shopping area, with sirens sounding shortly before the impact.
• Two Iron Dome interceptors were fired but did not stop the drone, which officials said flew at a very low altitude and was detected late.
• Magen David Adom reported 22 wounded, including two in serious condition with shrapnel injuries, as helicopters evacuated the most critical to Soroka Medical Center.
• The Houthis claimed responsibility and said they launched two drones, while Defense Minister Israel Katz warned those responsible would be hit “sevenfold” as the air force investigates the failure.
• The strike follows recent UAV impacts at an Eilat hotel and at nearby Ramon Airport, underscoring evolving tactics that challenge Israel’s air-defense systems.