Three weeks after a maritime incident in Eilat Bay, Israeli security officials are examining the possibility that the craft was not manned at all, but was sent to probe the army’s response. During the incident, the IDF announced a suspected sea infiltration in Eilat’s waters. Navy forces identified a vessel crossing the eastern border of the bay, fired at it, and the craft then headed back toward Jordan.
At the time, Jordanian sources said a person riding on the vessel had been wounded by the shooting. A security review found no indication that any rider existed, and officials said that report may have been mistaken or false. Later reporting indicated the findings point to a likely unmanned vessel, a drone boat, that may have been used either to collect intelligence or carry explosives.
Investigators now believe the craft may have continued toward Jordanian shores after the gunfire and remained there. One line of inquiry is that hostile actors intentionally carried out a “readiness test” of the Israeli Navy ahead of possible future activity or an attack in the Eilat area. Another possibility being checked is whether groups associated with the Houthis were behind the incident.
The reports came as it was also disclosed that Shin Bet chief David Zini has instructed senior officials to pay special attention to a possible attack on Eilat. According to Haaretz, Zini views the city as a security weak point because of its remote location, and has warned in internal discussions about both a land intrusion from Jordan and a maritime breach. Shin Bet said that during his first months in office, Zini visited Eilat as part of his familiarization with threats and defenses, but stressed there is no concrete intelligence or specific warning. Eilat Mayor Eli Lankri said there is no immediate or concrete threat, while emphasizing that the city and its security forces are prepared for any scenario.
