IDF Navy Commander Details Eilat Defense Plans Amid Houthi Threats
The commander of the Israeli Navy's missile boat flotilla, Colonel T., has outlined the military's preparations to defend the southern city of Eilat against potential Houthi aggression. He revealed that the Israeli Navy has previously detected and responded to an unidentified drone in the maritime zone near Eilat, though its origin could not be determined. Colonel T. suggested the drone might have been used for reconnaissance to test Israeli readiness, underscoring Eilat's status as a sensitive area requiring heightened security.
Despite these concerns, the military assures that Eilat remains a safe destination for tourism, with a high level of regional protection in place. However, Colonel T. acknowledged that ensuring safe navigation in Eilat's port remains a challenge, although operations are gradually resuming. He admitted the port's conditions are not optimal and that securing necessary cargo shipments during wartime has been difficult.
The commander also addressed the threat posed by Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have declared intentions to blockade Israel in the Bab el-Mandeb strait. "We know how to operate in the Bab el-Mandeb area, and have operated in these waters. For every maritime area controlled by the enemy, we have an operational plan of action. This requires a decision from the General Staff," Colonel T. stated.
Regarding potential threats from Turkey, the officer noted overlapping and diverging interests in the Mediterranean Sea. He emphasized the modernity and extensive combat experience of the Israeli Navy, asserting its capability to fulfill any mission in the region.
This comes after previous reports detailing an IDF operation against the Houthis in Yemen, with the military stating that the group systematically uses civilian infrastructure for its operations.
