Shin Bet chief David Zini has warned that Eilat could be a target for a combined attack, according to a report broadcast Monday. During a tour of the city shortly after taking office, he ordered an increase in intelligence collection because of concerns about the threat environment there.
Zini described Eilat as “isolated,” near three borders, and therefore potentially vulnerable. The Shin Bet later clarified that the visit took place several months ago as part of Zini’s onboarding process and broader assessment of threats, partly together with the army. The agency stressed that there is “no concrete information or warning.”
Eilat municipality echoed that message, saying the Shin Bet had clarified there was no specific or immediate threat to the city. Mayor Eli Lankri said the city and the security forces protecting it are ready for any scenario, and that since the October 7 Hamas attack, lessons have been learned to prevent a repeat of such a disaster anywhere in Israel.
Lankri said he has held regular talks with security officials since the war began and that Eilat has strong protection, including added security measures during the conflict, especially along the eastern border. He added that Israel must also invest in the city’s resilience beyond security, including health services, emergency infrastructure and public services, as Eilat prepares for tens of thousands of summer visitors and tourists in the coming days.
