Houthi drone attack hits Ramon Airport in Israel
- A Houthi drone struck the arrivals hall at Ramon Airport in southern Israel, causing damage and injuries.
- No warning sirens were activated, a rare occurrence in Israel's systematic defense against aerial threats.
- The incident reflects escalating hostilities between Israel and the Houthi rebels, prompting concerns over security and civilian safety.
On September 7, 2025, a Houthi drone struck the arrivals hall at Ramon Airport, located in southern Israel. This incident was reported by both the Israeli military and the Israel Airports Authority who confirmed that no sirens were activated prior to the drone impact, a significant anomaly in the region known for its robust defense systems against such threats. The drone attack resulted in minor injuries to two individuals and significant damage to the airport's facilities, with shattered windows and glass-covered floors reported in the aftermath. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the situation was under investigation to determine how the drone managed to bypass their comprehensive air defense systems, which typically intercept threats effectively. It is noteworthy that this was not an isolated incident; the Houthis had previously targeted Israel with various projectiles, including a ballistic missile in May 2025 that successfully penetrated air defenses and hit Ben Gurion International Airport, causing a temporary suspension of flights. The Houthis, an Iranian-backed group based in Yemen, have intensified their long-range campaign against Israel, which they justify as support for Palestinians in Gaza amidst ongoing conflicts. The system of defense employed by Israel includes a multi-layer missile defense mechanism designed to detect and neutralize threats from the air. However, the recent attacks showcase weaknesses that might shift public perception regarding the effectiveness of these defenses in protecting critical infrastructure. Following the drone assault, the southern airspace over Ramon Airport was briefly closed for aircraft traffic, but operations resumed approximately 90 minutes later. The incident raises questions surrounding the escalation of hostilities in the region and the implications for both Israeli civilians and tourism, as Ramon Airport primarily serves the city of Eilat, a popular destination in Israel. As tensions between Israel and the Houthis continue to escalate, officials may need to reassess both military strategies and protective measures to safeguard against future incursions.