A Houthi drone attack occurred in the Israeli Red Sea coastal resort town of Eilat on Wednesday (September 24). At least 20 people were injured as a result of the attack. Two of them were in serious condition, one was in moderate condition, and the remaining 19 were injured by shrapnel.

The Times of Israel reported that the drone used in the attack was launched by Yemeni Houthi rebels. It exploded on the spot in a shopping area near a hotel. The Israeli military was able to identify the drone, but two Iron Dome missiles were fired, but they failed. It is likely that the drone was flying at a low altitude and could not be intercepted.

After the incident, the Israeli Air Force quickly sent two helicopters to transfer the seriously injured to the Beersheba Soroka Medical Center, while the rest are receiving treatment in local hospitals.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said, “The Houthis are following the wrong path, not learning from Iran, Lebanon and Gaza. Those who harm us will pay a sevenfold price.”

The Houthi group claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it launched two drones at different targets in Eilat, although the second one failed to reach its target.

Experts say the Houthis have been targeting Eilat with drones and missiles for several days. Earlier this month, the Ramon airport was also attacked. According to the military, the Houthis have fired about 90 ballistic missiles and more than 41 drones at Israel since the anti-Hamas operation began on March 18.