Eilat Houthi Threat Warning Draws Fresh Expert Skepticism

Security analysts said Wednesday that Shin Bet chief David Zini's reported Eilat warning should be treated as preparedness planning, while public evidence still does not show an imminent Houthi ground or sea assault. Earlier reports said Zini ordered priority planning for a possible October 7-style attack from Jordanian territory or by sea, and that security officials questioned what intelligence supported the scenario. The new assessment said the Iranian-backed Houthis have intent, missiles and drones, but probably lack expeditionary capacity for a large assault from Yemen. It also noted Israeli drills near Eilat and local medical planning for mass-casualty readiness after repeated Houthi and Iranian fire toward the south.