Israel’s air defense systems intercepted a hostile aerial target launched toward Eilat late Saturday night, marking a sharp escalation on the southern front after weeks of threats.
Sirens warning of an aerial intrusion were activated across the city, with residents reporting explosions and documenting the interception. Local authorities confirmed the target was successfully neutralized outside city limits, with no casualties or damage reported.
The incident comes just hours after a ballistic missile was launched toward the Be’er Sheva area earlier in the day—also intercepted—signaling the official entry of the Iran-backed Houthi rebels into the conflict.
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree announced the launch of a “military operation” against Israel, including missiles and drones targeting what he described as “sensitive military sites” in southern Israel.
