Israel Closes Airspace, Halts Flights After Houthi Drones Strike Ramon Airport

A drone launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels struck Ramon International Airport near Eilat, Israel, causing damage to the passenger hall and injuring two people lightly, which led Israel to close southern airspace and halt flights temporarily. The Israeli military confirmed multiple drones were launched, with several intercepted before entering Israel, while at least one hit the airport. This attack follows escalating hostilities after Israel killed Ahmed al-Rahawi, the Houthi-appointed prime minister in Sanaa, during a recent airstrike, prompting the Houthis to vow intensified assaults on Israel and Red Sea vessels. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have previously targeted Israeli airports and shipping routes, with Israel retaliating by striking key Houthi infrastructure in Yemen. The incident highlights the ongoing regional tension as Israel prepares for a new ground offensive in Gaza amid broader conflicts involving the Houthis in Yemen. While the Houthis have yet to officially claim responsibility for this latest strike, their pattern of using drones and cluster munitions poses increased challenges to Israeli defenses.