Sana'a – A drone launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen struck the southern Israeli city of Eilat on Wednesday, injuring at least 22 people, according to preliminary reports from local authorities.

The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), believed to be of Iranian design and operated by Houthi forces, penetrated Israeli airspace and detonated near a commercial area in Eilat, causing damage to infrastructure and triggering panic among residents.

Emergency services responded swiftly, evacuating the wounded to nearby hospitals. Medical officials confirmed that several of the injured sustained moderate to serious wounds, while others were treated for shock and minor injuries.

The Israeli military stated that it had detected the drone but failed to intercept it before impact. Investigations are underway to determine the exact flight path and whether regional air defense systems were compromised.

Israeli officials condemned the attack and vowed to respond decisively. Meanwhile, international observers warned that such incidents could further destabilize an already volatile region.