Eilat, Israel's southernmost city, has recently made headlines due to security concerns stemming from missile and drone attacks launched by Houthi rebels targeting the city. The Israeli navy intercepted a drone over Eilat, believed to have originated from Yemen, without causing any injuries or damage. Tel Aviv University scientists have also been in the spotlight for their efforts to understand a local die-off and specific pathogen, amidst fears of a global epidemic, collaborating with regional partners on research.
Eilat, with a population of 52,299, is a bustling port city and a popular resort destination located at the northern tip of the Red Sea. Known for its vibrant coral reefs and underwater marine life, Eilat is a hub for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The city's strategic location near the borders of Egypt and Jordan has made it a target for security threats, as seen in recent missile and drone attacks. Eilat's economy thrives on tourism, trade, and its busy port, which serves as a gateway for goods entering and leaving Israel.